Sneaky loophole that lets California fine you for warning cars about cops

On California roads, a harmless heads-up could lead to a hefty fine.

Under California law, drivers must dim their headlights when approaching an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet or when following another vehicle within 300 feet.

If you’re caught flashing your high beams to warn someone of a cop, you could be hit with a fine of up to $238, and have one point added to your license.

In California, your driver’s license can be suspended if you accumulate 6 points in 24 months, or 8 points in 36 months.

The California DMV lists several situations when drivers should use their headlights, including when it is too dark to see a person or vehicle 1,000 feet away, 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise, during inclement weather including fog, rain or snow, on mountain roads and in tunnels, when a road sign requires them, and to help other drivers see your vehicle when the sun is low.

“Your vehicle’s headlights help you see what is in front of you,” the California Department of Motor Vehicles says in its California Driver’s Handbook. “They also make it easier for other drivers to see your vehicle.”

It is also illegal to use high beams to alert other drivers that their headlights aren’t on, according to Officer Tom Olsen with the California Highway Patrol.

“We understand people’s intentions: Warning people to turn lights on, change lanes, etc.,” Olsen told The Sacramento Bee. “Any flashing within that amount of time is illegal.”

Drivers do have other ways to warn motorists about an actual hazard. The DMV says emergency flashers can be used to alert others to unusual traffic conditions, collisions or a disabled vehicle.

If you do spot a collision or hazard ahead, the DMV suggests turning on your emergency flashers, lightly tapping your brake pedal three to four times, and using a hand signal when slowing and stopping.

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