In what scenario is it crucial to use your hazard lights?

Using hazard lights is crucial when coming to a complete stop on a roadway or its shoulder because it alerts other drivers to your presence and indicates that your vehicle is not moving. This is especially important in situations where the stopped vehicle may be unexpected, such as on busy highways or in low-visibility conditions. Hazard lights serve as a warning signal, helping to reduce the risk of collisions by making your vehicle more visible to oncoming traffic.

In contrast, during the day or while merging into traffic, the use of hazard lights may not be as appropriate because there are other established signals, such as turn signals, that are designed for those situations. Driving at high speeds requires maintaining control and focus, and using hazard lights in such conditions could cause confusion among other drivers. Keeping all these points in mind helps to understand the specific context in which hazard lights are most effectively utilized.