Drivers were told when having their hazard lights on won't protect them from a fine
Many drivers believe that turning on their hazard lights allows them to stop briefly even in a prohibited area. However, the Traffic Rules clearly define when using hazard lights is truly justified and when it will not prevent a fine.
According to Section 9.9 of the Traffic Rules, hazard lights must be turned on, in particular, in the event of a forced stop on the road, a traffic accident, being blinded by headlights, towing a vehicle, or driving a vehicle with a mechanical malfunction.
However, simply having the hazard lights on does not mean that a driver can stop just anywhere.
Paragraph 1.10 of the Traffic Rules states that a stop is considered forced if it is due to a vehicle malfunction, a hazard posed by the cargo, the condition of the driver or a passenger, or the presence of an obstacle on the road.
In other words, stopping near a store, pharmacy, coffee shop, school, or building entrance to drop off a passenger or wait for someone is not considered an emergency stop—even if the driver has turned on the hazard lights.
Why the hazard lights do not override the no-stopping rule
Because hazard lights merely warn other road users of a hazard or a forced stop. They do not give the driver the right to ignore the prohibitions established by Section 15.9 of the Traffic Rules.
This provision prohibits stopping, in particular, at crosswalks and within 10 meters of them, at intersections, and within 10 meters of the edge of the intersecting roadway.
It is also prohibited to stop at public transportation stops, on bridges, overpasses, in tunnels, on tram tracks, railroad crossings, public transit lanes, and in places where a vehicle obstructs the view of traffic signs or traffic lights.
Therefore, if a driver intentionally stops in one of these locations, having the hazard lights on does not exempt them from liability. It merely signals to other drivers that the vehicle is stationary.
This is reported with reference to the Traffic Rules.
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