When can hazard warning lights be used?

Using hazard warning lights is primarily intended to alert other road users to a situation that could pose a danger. The correct instance to utilize hazard warning lights is during a breakdown. This is critical because when a vehicle is immobilized on the road or roadside, hazard lights indicate to approaching drivers that there may be an obstacle or a need for caution, thereby helping to prevent potential accidents.

It's important for drivers to understand that hazard warning lights are not appropriate for every scenario that involves a vehicle being temporarily stationary. For instance, while waiting at traffic lights or parked in a designated parking spot, using hazard lights can mislead other drivers about your intentions and can lead to confusion about normal vehicle operation. Similarly, the use of hazard lights solely during heavy rain is not acceptable, as it does not consistently align with the purpose of notifying others of immediate danger associated with the vehicle itself. Therefore, the correct application of hazard warning lights enhances road safety in the case of vehicle breakdowns.