April 11, 2023

Why do I need a vehicle flasher?

Lots of lights flash, but not all are vehicle flashers. So, you might find yourself asking “what is a vehicle flasher?” Luckily, we’ve got an answer ! In short, a vehicle flasher is a device that integrates into your vehicle’s existing headlights and/or taillights to make those lights strobe. 
These lights are not exclusive to emergency vehicles and are incredibly important to road safety. So, why do you need them?

• Communication of intent.

At their most basic level, automotive flashers are used in turn signals and hazards/warning lights. You use them every time you indicate to other drivers that you are turning or merging lanes, and whenever you hit that red triangle hazard button. 
Flashers let pedestrians and other drivers know to look out.

• Safety.

Safety is the reason you have to indicate your intention in the first place. If others on the road had no way of knowing what you planned to do, they would have no reason to slow down, speed up, move over, or wait for you to take action. Flashers make sharing the road a safer act. If you have ever had to slam on your brakes to let someone who didn’t signal into your lane, you likely know the feeling. Accidents already happen too frequently, but without the communication allowed by flashers, there would be far more. 

• Broad utilization.

There are many applications for flashing warning lights. If you live in a city, you will often find street sweepers using them to alert drivers and pedestrians of their presence. Busses, trash trucks, utility vehicles, and weather-specific vehicles like snowmobiles might also use a flashing warning light. 

• Inclement weather.

If you ever find yourself in a bad storm and are unable to get to the side of the road, hazard flashers are essential. The laws on when you can use hazards while driving vary per state, so be mindful. In Colorado, for example, you can use them “the vehicle speed is 25 mph or less,” but that might not be true everywhere.

• Ultra Bright.

During the day, your headlights are one of the most effective warning lights you can use to alert other motorists and pedestrians to your presence. They are incredibly bright and an efficient tool. However, when necessary, the addition of flashers can indicate even more to those around you.