Question: The way I learned to drive was, if you’re in the left lane of the freeway and somebody behind you flashes his high beams, you’re supposed to move over and let him by.
It seems like Washington people don’t get that. Not only do they not move over, they get mad.
What’s up with that? – Thomas, Gig Harbor
Answer: In many places, momentarily flicking high beams is a time-honored form of communication among drivers – for reminding oncoming cars to dim their lights, warning fellow drivers of speed traps ahead and, as you say, letting slowpokes know you want by.
Unfortunately, high-beam flashing is illegal in Washington.
RCW 46.37.230, the applicable Washington statute, doesn’t speak specifically to flashing, but it says you’re supposed to adjust your lights “to avoid glare at all times” when you’re within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle. And it says you’re not supposed to use your brights when there’s a vehicle within 300 feet ahead of you.
The Washington State Patrol interprets this to mean “no flashing.”
If a trooper pulls you over for it, he or she can write you a $124 ticket.
Rob Carson: 253-597-8693
rob.carson@thenewstribune.com
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