Yes, you CAN legally use your hazard lights while driving in Florida? Here’s when and where

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions and shares tips about the rules of the road, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.

Trooper Steve on Tuesday was asked, “With all this rain, I have seen hazard lights in use while people are driving on the highway. This is legal now, right?”

If you’re looking for one way to tell everyone around you on the road “Hey, maybe keep your distance,” just go ahead and drive with your hazard lights on. It’s like a rolling billboard that says, “I’m not super confident about this weather.”

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Now, I get it, some drivers think they’re being helpful. They’ll say, “But I’m warning everyone!” Which is kind of true, but let’s clear something up: hazard lights weren’t designed for that.

Traditionally, they’ve meant you have a problem with your car. You’re stopped on the shoulder. Changing a tire. Waiting for help. Not cruising along at 25 mph on the interstate with your blinkers going like a disco ball.

Over the years, though, we all know what happened. As soon as Florida skies open up with our trademark monsoons, people hit those hazard lights because they’re going slower than usual. Honestly, if you can’t see enough to drive safely, that might be your sign to pull over for a bit.

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But here’s the twist —and yes, I’ll admit it— the law actually did change in 2021. Florida now allows drivers to use their hazard lights while moving in serious, inclement weather if they feel it’s necessary.

Florida statute 316.2397(7) says, “Flashing lights are prohibited on vehicles except: (c) During periods of extremely low visibility on roadways with a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour or higher.”

So all those drivers you see flashing away in a torrential downpour? Legally, they’re in the clear.

The next time you see hazard lights in the rain, know that they’re technically allowed. Just don’t make it your go-to move for every sprinkle, save it for those truly wild Florida storms.

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