Many people have questions about the truck driving profession and some of the behaviors of semi-truck drivers on the road. Notably, some wonder why it’s common to spot 18-wheelers driving with their hazard lights on. There can be multiple reasons for this, but one of the most common has to do with maintaining safety for the truck driver and others on the road. 

Here’s why people who work in truck driving use their hazard lights

Truck driving is a vast profession, meaning semi-truck drivers often display behaviors that laypeople don’t understand. Regarding hazard lights, drivers following these big trucks might see them flash for many reasons. The most common is perhaps due to the speed of the truck. Drivers will often use the hazards when they have to slow down for one reason or another. Frequently, this happens when they are going up or down hills.

People who work in truck driving may also use their hazard lights if they need to pull over. They do this to alert other drivers on the road so that they don’t cause car wrecks with people in the same lane. Of course, it takes these larger vehicles more time to pull over, so alerting other drivers is paramount. 

Still, truck driving professionals may use their hazard lights for other reasons. They could do so to alert others on the road to things they should know, including construction zones and traffic congestion. Additionally, they could use them when they’re experiencing mechanical issues. Drivers may also do this if they are carrying hazardous material. 

What are car hazard lights for?

Of course, hazard lights are also confusing outside the world of truck driving. Some drivers may not admit it, but many don’t know what their hazard lights are for. One of the most common reasons for hazard lights is related to car wrecks. Specifically, drivers who have been in an accident will often turn on the lights while they are waiting for help. This is to prevent other drivers from colliding with them. 

Like with truck driving, people in cars can use them to alert other drivers of mechanical issues. This is especially the case when changing a tire on the side of the road or when the car is broken down. It signals for drivers to change lanes to avoid further incidents. Some people also use these lights when a police officer pulls them over to let them know they acknowledge the traffic stop. This practice is also common in funeral processions. However, AccuWeather says drivers should not use hazard lights in bad weather because they cause confusion.