What does it mean if a driver flashes their headlights at you?

Flashing headlights is often used as a form of communication between drivers. When a driver flashes their headlights at you, it typically indicates that they are warning you about an upcoming hazard or danger. This action is a safety measure to alert you to potential risks on the road, such as an accident ahead, a police presence, or debris in the roadway.

While other interpretations exist, they may not be the primary or most common reasons for the action. For instance, indicating that you have your high beams on could be considered a courtesy notification, but it doesn’t encompass the wider context of potential hazards that the flashing is meant to convey. Wanting you to change lanes or trying to get your attention are less common interpretations and are not the main purpose behind headlight flashing in most driving scenarios. Thus, the warning about hazards is the most significant reason for this action and underscores the importance of communication among drivers for safety on the road.