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Courtesy when driving is important - but sometimes it can actually be a distraction. You might think that you're being polite but if you make this common driving mistake, you might find yourself £200 poorer.

Flashing your headlights at other drivers is often seen as a way to say thank you, or even to warn other drivers about upcoming police checks but experts are urging drivers to ditch it.

Even though you think it's friendly and harmless, it can actually be in breach of the Highway Code and lead to some serious penalties.

Neil Atkinson, owner ofCarrosserie, said: "Flashing your headlights has become second nature for a lot of drivers in the UK, and many see it as a courteous gesture.

"But in reality, it's often misunderstood. The Highway Code is very clear that headlights should only be used to let other road users know you're there, not to communicate messages or instructions."

According to the Highway Code Rule 110, drivers are instructed to "only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there." If you flash your lights for any other reason, it can be seen as misuse and be in breach of the law.

People can face fines of between £100 and £200, along with three to six penalty points for careless driving. If you're found to have flashed your lights to warn other drivers about speed cameras or police checks, the penalties can be even higher.

Being caught doing this may result in a charge of "wilfully obstructing a constable" under Section 89 of the Police Act 1996, which carries a potential fine of up to £1,000.

Neil said: Neil added: "A lot of drivers don't realise that trying to warn others about police activity could actually be seen as interfering with law enforcement.

"It's always safer to stick to the official guidance and avoid using your headlights for anything other than making your presence known."