National Highways promotes dashboard warning light awareness ahead of Road Safety Week

With Road Safety Week approaching, National Highways has launched a renewed push to help drivers understand the dashboard warning lights in their vehicles and the actions they should take when they appear.

The campaign is part of the organisation’s wider work to reduce preventable breakdowns and stop-outs on the strategic road network. National Highways says many incidents could be avoided if drivers recognised warning symbols earlier and responded appropriately, rather than panicking or continuing their journey unaware of a potential issue.

Dashboard lights are designed to provide essential information about a vehicle’s status and alert drivers to problems. They typically follow a traffic light colour system: red, amber and green, although some vehicles also use white or blue indicators.

National Highways has published a detailed guide explaining each category of warning light, what it signifies, and the correct steps to take. The guide emphasises that while it is normal for certain lights to appear briefly as the engine starts, any symbol that remains illuminated requires attention before setting off.

Red warning lights: serious issues

A red light indicates a possible serious fault. Drivers are advised not to begin a journey with a red warning light showing. If one appears mid-journey, they should avoid stopping in a live lane unless absolutely necessary, and if the vehicle can be driven safely, proceed to the next junction or service area. If unable to leave the carriageway, drivers should move to the left lane and pull into an emergency area, layby or hard shoulder, then follow National Highways’ breakdown guidance.

Amber warning lights: advisory checks needed

Amber lights suggest that a vehicle requires maintenance or inspection. As with red lights, drivers should not set off with an amber warning light active. If it appears while driving, the same safety advice applies: avoid stopping in a live lane and head for the nearest safe exit or service area.

Green, white or blue lights: information only

These lights simply provide information about the vehicle’s status. There is no need to stop, but National Highways recommends checking their meaning at the next planned stop, particularly if driving an unfamiliar vehicle.

Encouraging drivers to prepare

National Highways is reminding motorists to familiarise themselves with their dashboard and controls, especially when driving a new or hired vehicle. The organisation has also signposted further guidance on motorway breakdown procedures and simple vehicle checks that drivers can carry out to reduce the risk of avoidable incidents.