Headlight flashers pulled up in Britain too

For years, drivers who pass a police speed trap have flashed their headlights at oncoming cars to warn them to slow down.  But this spirit of friendly co-operation could become a thing of the past after one police force caught almost as many drivers who flashed their lights as actual speeders.

In an anti-speeding campaign, Lancashire Police handed out 23 tickets for breaking the limit - and  20 for 'misuse of headlights'.

Critics said it was a money-making exercise that would erode public support for the police, while the AA said imposing the £30 fines created a ‘legal and moral minefield’.

But the police insisted that warning other drivers of a speed trap was ‘a dangerous practice’.  Lancashire traffic officer PC Antony Gray said: ‘Potentially they are putting lives at risk.  'Flashing your lights at someone may make them slow down for a second, but it will not make them change their habits.

‘Speeding motorists need to be spoken to so they will seriously consider their irresponsible driving.’

However, Sean Corker, of the Drivers’ Alliance, said motorists had to be told they were in a speed-check area, adding: ‘I don’t think there’s a difference between a road sign and a person giving a warning.’

The purge on drivers who flashed their headlights was condemned as a 'legal and moral minefield' by the AA.  The motoring organisation said the move is wide open to legal challenge and fears innocent motorists could be targeted for warning other drivers to slow down.

Source

A court challenge is needed.  Cops will get away with anything if you let them.