Signals to other road users

Brake lights

I am applying the brakes

What does this signal mean?

Brake lights tell the traffic behind that you are applying the brakes. They work automatically, which makes them reliable but also purely reactive; they say nothing until you have already slowed. Braking gently and early gives the driver behind more warning than braking hard and late. In queuing traffic on fast roads, a few light dabs on the brake pedal are a useful way of making that warning unmistakable.

Highway Code references

• Rule 103 from General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders (103 to 158)

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