What purpose do brake lights serve for drivers behind you?

Brake lights are essential safety features that communicate directly with drivers behind you. When you press the brake pedal, the brake lights illuminate to signal that you are slowing down or preparing to stop. This alert gives following drivers the advance notice they need to react accordingly, which helps prevent rear-end collisions.

The illumination of these lights essentially serves as a warning system, indicating that a vehicle is decelerating or coming to a halt, which is crucial for maintaining safe distances on the road. Understanding this function is vital for all drivers, as it emphasizes the importance of clear communication through vehicle signals, ultimately enhancing road safety.