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Ohio Lawmaker Urges Passage Of Headlight Flashing Bill

Drivers might be surprised to hear that the ordinary action of flashing their headlights on the road could be considered illegal. Now, one lawmaker wants to clear the confusion. Seeing a driver “flash their brightsâ€? is not uncommon on the roads. While this can be done out of aggravation, it’s also to warn oncoming drivers of a variety of issues, such as construction or a crash. Drivers could also be warning others if law enforcement’s waiting around the corner to catch speeders. But at least one lawmaker says this act could be considered illegal. “People have been charged with obstruction of justice,â€? says Representative John Becker (R-Cincinnati) Becker is trying to pass a bill that makes it legal for drivers to use their high beams, whether they’re cautioning others about danger ahead or even to inform them of awaiting police officers. He adds that law enforcement should support his measure.

“The police claim they’re out there on the highways with RADAR and lasers in the name of public safety to prompt people to slow down—well people flashing their headlights—warning of police RADAR has the same effect so it sounds like a win-win for me,â€? says Becker.

Law enforcement groups, such as Ohio’s Fraternal Order of Police, are keeping track of the legislation but haven’t made any formal statements yet.