Headlight flashingUnited Kingdom
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United Kingdom. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
172. Headlight flashing
Headlight flashing means briefly flashing a vehicle's headlights to attract another road user's attention. Its permitted use and meaning vary by country and situation, so drivers should not assume that a flash grants priority or authorises a manoeuvre. Headlights should not be flashed in a way that dazzles or distracts other road users.
Wikimedia.org • A. Bailey • CC BY-SA
Does flashing headlights mean “you may go” in Britain?
No. Rule 110 says to flash headlights only to indicate your presence. Rule 111 warns drivers not to assume that flashing headlights gives permission or priority to proceed.

Traffic rules
United Kingdom