From some using fake “passengers” to use the carpooling lane to drivers completely ignoring speed limits during the lockdowns, Washington State Patrol troopers have seen it all. As a matter of fact, they have even seen drivers using flashlights in lieu of headlights!
According to several news outlets, a WSP trooper pulled over a Chevy Impala driver traveling close to North Bend on Interstate 90 after he noticed the vehicle’s lights were “super dim.” Worried about the visibility issues this could produce, the officer pulled the driver over to take a closer look. What he found were two flashlights taped to the vehicle’s front fascia.
In addition to the flashlights, the officer noticed the vehicle had sustained considerable damage, suggesting that the original headlights had been severely impacted in an accident. During his inspection, the trooper also learned that the driver was operating a vehicle with a suspended license.
Talking to reporters, the officer shared his disbelief in what he had witnessed.
“I don’t know of any car manufacturer that duct tapes flashlights to the front of their cars upon sale,” the WSP trooper said. “But you know, I guess this is 2020, right?”
Visibility Issues Increases Risk Of Accidents
When the trooper pulled the driver over, he learned that the flashlights taped to the car were not only inappropriate, they were also running low on battery. The result was disastrous as the lights were dimming and failing to make both the road ahead and the vehicle visible to those sharing the road with it.
In Washington state, the law dictates that your vehicle’s headlights must be on in the evening and whenever weather or road conditions make it difficult for drivers to see people or other vehicles. Flashlights do not provide the necessary visibility, making this a violation of state law.
By driving without functioning headlights, this driver exposed both himself and those around him to serious accident risks.
We hope this story serves as a reminder to drivers across the state that visibility matters. Ignoring the potential dangers associated with defective or non-working headlights can lead to crashes, exposing you and your loved ones to great injury risks.
