What lights must be used when standing in the dark at night?

When standing in the dark at night, it is essential to use two white front lights and two red back lights. This configuration is important because it ensures that your vehicle is visible from both the front and the back. The white front lights help to alert oncoming traffic of your presence, particularly important in low-light conditions. Meanwhile, the red back lights serve to indicate to drivers approaching from behind that your vehicle is stationary, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.

Using this combination of lights creates a clear signal to other road users, which is crucial for safety. In contrast, relying solely on front headlights would not adequately signal your presence to traffic approaching from behind. Flashing hazard lights may also indicate a stationary vehicle, but they are typically used for emergency situations and may not provide as comprehensive visibility as the standard lights described. Not using any lights would significantly increase the risk of accidents, as other drivers would not be able to see your vehicle at all. This highlights the importance of using the recommended lighting to function safely on the road.