Headlight flashing may mean something different in Maine than it does in other states, and the change in meaning may baffle drivers slightly. However, this is not the first accepted driving practice in Maine that has come to mean something different in another state. We need to explore what flashing headlights could mean in Maine and how this meaning differs from the meaning of flashing headlights in another state.
The flashing of headlights is somewhat legal in Maine
Generally, drivers tend to flash their headlights to provide a warning of an upcoming speed trap. In Maine, this flashing of headlights to indicate a warning is considered to be free speech. Back in 2014, a driver actually won a court case whereby it was considered alright and even legal to flash headlights to warn other drivers that they may gain a ticket if they don’t take heed of the speed limit.
In Maine, flashing headlights at another person is said to be a warning and works highly in the person’s favor if they do manage to avoid a trap. When flashing headlights can be seen in Maine, it is a sign to slow down and be thankful for the driver who provided the warning.
Flashing headlights in Maine could have another meaning
The meaning of flashing headlights in Maine gives drivers a heads-up about police presence, but could also be indicative that your headlights are not switched on. Since Maine tends to see weather changes at the drop of a hat, it is considered somewhat illegal to be driving without headlights during rainy or snowy weather conditions.
Being flashed by another road user could indicate that you need to double-check your lights, as you may have forgotten to turn them on. Both reasons for flashing headlights in Maine can be seen as positive, especially since it is done to alert and help another driver.
Actions to take if a driver is flashing their headlights at you
Some reactions are warranted if a driver flashes his or her headlights at you while you are driving in Maine.
- Firstly, check your speed as this may be a warning for you to say that police are on the road ahead and your speed may be exceeding the speed limit.
- Check on your headlights. If you are not speeding, the flashing lights may be an indicator that your headlights are not on when the weather conditions require you to turn them on.
- Remain calm. In Maine, a driver flashing his or her headlights at you is not an issue, but more of a form of help to either warn you of something upcoming or to remind you of what protocol is.
While it is not considered illegal to flash your headlights at another driver in Maine, flashing someone should only be something you do when the need calls for it. It is never a good idea to turn on your headlights for no reason. It must be remembered that in some states, the use of headlights will be very different.
More about using different lights in Maine
In Maine, flashing your headlights at another driver is legal; however, not all form of car light flashes is considered in the same way. Lights like red or blue are mainly for emergency vehicles and should not be used in any circumstance. Flashing red or blue colored lights is a violation that could result in a fine.
While you understand that flashing headlights in Maine is not a big issue and merely a non-verbal sign to a fellow driver, be appreciative of the drivers who flash their headlights at you to warn you or to remind you of he road rules. In the state of Massachusetts, some car headlights are banned, so it is helpful to know headlight rules in all states you may travel in.
