Drivers could face a hefty fine for using 'thank you gestures' on the road

28.06.2022 - 14:53 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Motorists have been warned that some unspoken rules of the road could actually land them with a shockingly high fine.

It has become common practice in the UK to thank other drivers on the road after being let into a junction or lane by waving a hand or giving a quick flash with the backlights. In fact, a new study by National Tyres and Autocare revealed that one in five drivers choose to flash their headlights to say thanks.

However, this is actually in breach of the Highway Code and could cause trouble for the motorist doing so. The study also revealed that one in three choose to give a classic wave to say thanks and one in six opted for a simple thumbs up while one in 20 don't say thanks at all, the Liverpool Echo reports.

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We've compiled three classic British ways of saying thank you on the road and how they could actually land you with a fine which in some cases can rack up as high as £1,000.

Rule 110 of the Highway Code states: "Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there… Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users." If caught, drivers can be fined up to £1,000."

According to rule 116 of the Highway code: “You MUST NOT use hazard warning lights while driving or being towed unless you are on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway and you need to warn drivers behind you of a hazard or obstruction ahead. Only use them for long enough to ensure that your warning has been observed.” If caught drivers can be fined up to £1,000.

According to rule 160 of the Highway Code, once moving a vehicle you should "drive or ride with both hands on the