What does it mean when a cop has lights but no siren?

If the lights are on but there is no siren, it could be that there is an ongoing crime and officers do not yet wish to alert the perpetrator of their presence. Another possibility is that, though an officer is headed to an emergency, there is no traffic on the road that needs to move out of the way.



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Usually when we do that we are trying to get your attention, so you pay attention to your driving; speed, lane usage, lack of attention, cell phone usage. Think of it as a warning. We may do this if your issue is not over the top, or perhaps we are on the way to another call and cannot stop you, but want to warn you.

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Technically it's just a matter of quickly getting your attention, debris in the road, wildlife or other hazards. If it's the emergency overhead lights, chances are their telling you to slow down.

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The combination of flashing red and blue lights helps to alert drivers regardless of the time of day. Interestingly, some experts also say that using both red and blue lights mitigates problems associated with drivers who are colorblind. Those who have may trouble seeing red often have no trouble seeing blue.

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