Most people are familiar with a warning triangle. A warning triangle or safety triangle is a triangular reflecting device that you can place behind your vehicle in the case of a breakdown or accident. With a safety triangle, you warn fellow road users that your car is not taking part in normal traffic. This way you can prevent (more) accidents. However, we noticed that there is still some confusion about warning triangles and its use. Is a warning triangle compulsory? And what is the warning triangle distance between the vehicle and the triangle?
Is a warning triangle compulsory?
A question often asked is a warning triangle required? There is some confusion on the topic. Read further as we explain the rules below.
In the United Kingdom, it is not compulsory to have a warning triangle in your car. It is, however, compulsory to warn other road users, so having a warning triangle in your car is highly recommended. Other warning devices are also permitted. Furthermore, it is recommended to use both a safety triangle and your hazard-warning lights if your car has broken-down. Ensure the triangle you use complies to global specification 'UNECE27R'. This has efficient outer red reflex reflectors for night and fog use, and an inner fluorescent orange 'daytime' triangle.
If your vehicle develops a problem at the motorway, leave the motorway at the next exit or pull into a service area. If you cannot, pull on to the hard shoulder than stop as far to the left as possible, with your wheels turned to the left. Always leave the vehicle by the left-hand door and ensure your passengers do the same. Leave any animals in the vehicle or, in an emergency, keep them under proper control on the verge. Never attempt to place a warning triangle on a motorway. You could place a warning triangle on the roof or boot in order to increase the visual aspect of the scene to approaching traffic.
Warning triangle distance
Another frequently asked question is, what is the warning triangle distance, so how much distance should there be between the warning triangle and my vehicle? The Highway Code states that one should put a safety triangle on the road at least 45 meters (147 feet) behind your broken-down vehicle on the same side of the road. You may use other permitted warning devices if you have them. The warning triangle needs to be clearly visible to fellow road users. When your vehicle is causing an obstruction then warn other road users by using your hazard warning lights. Help other road users to increase your own visibility by wearing light-coloured or fluorescent clothing in daylight, and reflective clothing at night or in poor visibility. Always place the warning triangle in the direction of the oncoming traffic.
Place the safety triangle to the 'side' of the affected lane, rather than its centre, to allow movement away from it! In the United Kingdom placement can typically be 45-200 meters (steps) away from the scene. Ideal for rural roads, where curves, bends and twists render breakdowns and crash scenes invisible till the last second. Use a high-visibility vest on the scene (EN 471 Class 2), if you have one. Don't take your eyes off approaching traffic when placing triangle/s, and only place if it is safe to do so.
Always pay attention when placing a warning triangle. For example, pay close attention to oncoming traffic. They may have not yet noticed and may still be driving at full speed. We recommend getting out on the side where there is no traffic, which is in general on the left. Although, in some cases, it is better to get out on the driver´s side. Also, switch your hazard warning lights on before getting out. If you haven’t placed the warning triangle yet, warn bystanders with the hazard warning lights. It is also strongly recommended putting on a high visibility waistcoat before getting out.
Buying a new warning triangle
A warning triangle is not compulsory in the United Kingdom. Although not mandatory, it is strongly recommended having a warning triangle in your car at all times. A safety triangle costs nearly nothing but does offer a lot of extra safety. It´s not only safer for you, but also for other road users. Additionally, it is wise to have other safety items in your car, such as a safety triangle, hi-vis vest, an emergency safety hammer, a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. Some of these products might be mandatory abroad.