Is It Illegal To Use Hazard Lights In The Rain? Louisiana Law Says Yes

You are likely well aware of the torrential downpour that hit northwest Louisiana this past Monday afternoon, July 13.

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In about a two-hour period, it's estimated that between four and six inches of rain hit our area and caused extreme short-lived flooding for many area roads and neighborhoods.

I happened to be out driving when the massive storm began to pound the area and witnessed something I had never seen previously. As it turns out, this issue has been around for quite some time, but it was my first time to see it, and to be honest, I hope it's the last.

As I traveled west on I-20 through Bossier City, I began to notice a few vehicles, blinded by the sheer volume of rainfall, pull to the shoulder and engage their emergency flashers (hazard lights). I mentally noted that was a wise move and momentarily considered the move myself.

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However, as I continued westward on the interstate, I was shocked to see dozens of vehicles continue to drive through the rain, but they too, had turned on their hazard lights. I honestly thought that I had somehow mistakenly gotten into the middle of a funeral procession.

The volume of vehicles doing this, coupled with the hard rain and the amount of flashing lights was daunting for me. Being behind these vehicles, I was unable to tell when they wanted to use their turn signals and change lanes, and for that matter, the intensity of their hazards made it difficult to clearly see their brake lights.

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While I can understand the thought process behind the idea of using emergency flashers in this rain, it was obvious to me that these drivers were unaware their actions were illegal in the state of Louisiana.

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According to Louisiana Revised Statute 32:327, in Louisiana, it is illegal to drive with your emergency flashers (hazard lights) on during heavy rain. "hazard lights are strictly reserved for disabled vehicles or to indicate a severe traffic hazard."

Even the American Automobile Association (AAA) advises against using hazards while driving in a storm, "Do not drive with your hazard lights on. Hazard lights are meant to signify that your vehicle is disabled. Using them while driving could confuse other motorists."

While I seriously doubt that police will be out issuing tickets for those violating this law in the middle of quasi-typhoon, should there be an accident caused by the action, I'm thinking the activity could certainly be citable and the violator be listed as the responsible party for the accident. But hey, I'm no Gordon McKernan.