What is the role of brake lights in safe driving?

Brake lights play a crucial role in safe driving by indicating to other drivers that a vehicle is slowing down or coming to a stop. When a driver applies the brakes, the brake lights illuminate, signalling the intention to reduce speed or stop. This communication is vital for maintaining safety on the road, as it allows following drivers to react appropriately. They can begin to slow down or prepare to change lanes, helping to prevent rear-end collisions.

While other options might seem relevant, they do not accurately reflect the primary function of brake lights. Showing the car's speed does not relate to brake lights at all, as they do not display speed information. While signaling to pedestrians is important, it primarily pertains to crosswalks and traffic signals. Lastly, informing police of a stop is not a function of brake lights; they serve more immediate purposes related to traffic flow and safety among vehicles.