Flashing the headlights
Many of the new chassis have headlights that are on whenever the engine is running. At the recent Rexhall Rally an owner asked how he was supposed to signal 18 wheeler trucks that have passed him and are clear to return to the right hand lane. After answering him, I thought it might be useful to others as well.
The driving headlights are from the low beam bulb, but only receive 60% of the electricity for full low beam, and therefore are only 60% as bright. There is no question that it is safer to drive during daylight with headlights on.
Now, when that truck passes you and is clear to move back into the right hand lane, simply turning on the headlight switch to full 100% low beam can be seen by the driver. I usually flash them twice.
Better yet though, is when you first start up the engine, turn on your headlights, put the lights on high beam, and turn them off. This means when you turn them on to signal the truck, he will get full high beams, which are easier to see. Low beam works but high beam is better. If you watch the right sided truck mirror, probably 80% of the time you can see when the driver turns his head to look for you in that right mirror.
At night, you have two options, the first is to flash the high beams. It should be done very quickly and probably only once. Even being very careful can blind the driver. The other choice is to turn the headlights off. You will still have the 60% low beam, and the driver can see your headlights dim. Again do it quickly. I usually do it twice, but once works.
If you are passing a truck, signal, and he flashes his lights for you, once you slide back into that right hand lane, the "thank you" is to turn on either your parking lights (on and off twice) or as some prefer, your hazard flashers for two or three beats.
In the old days, truckers were very courteous in doing this. Because of the current legal climate this helpful and thoughtful gesture is now prohibited by many truck lines. So it is seen less and less. But those drivers do appreciate it when we help them out. Also keep in mind that on two lane roads or hills, slowing your RV helps a truck to pass more quickly and safely.
Doug