A truck driver may therefore also briefly signal to you with his headlights. By doing so, he lets you know that not only your car, but also your caravan, has passed him. This occurs regularly on busy German motorways, for example. However, this does not mean that you must immediately steer to the right. Always check your own mirrors first. You alone remain responsible for a safe lane change.
Sometimes a thank you follows.
Anyone paying close attention may see something else happen after the light signal. Truck drivers regularly thank each other for this help. For example, a driver who has moved back to the right might briefly use their hazard lights. Sometimes, the left and right turn signals are also used for just a moment. By doing so, the driver is essentially simply saying: thank you.
It is a kind of informal language among road users . There are various types of these signals. However, they are not all officially defined and can differ from country to country. Therefore, if you see such a signal, you must always assess the situation. After all, a flash of light can mean something else at other times.
It is not official permission
Although many truck drivers understand these signals, they are not official traffic rules. In the Netherlands, according to traffic regulations, flashing and audible signals primarily serve a function in the event of imminent danger. Therefore, legally, a brief flash of light does not mean you are granted permission to change lanes. Nor does it give you the right of way. At most, the driver behind you can indicate that he sees sufficient space.
That difference is important. Therefore, always keep looking yourself before moving to the right. Check your mirrors and maintain sufficient distance from the truck . Also, do not drive directly in front of the truck. Heavy vehicles require much more distance to come to a stop. Extra space between your car and the truck is therefore always wise.
