What is the function of a vehicle's brake lights?

The function of a vehicle's brake lights is to indicate when the driver is slowing down or coming to a stop. This is crucial for road safety, as it alerts other drivers behind the vehicle to take appropriate action, such as reducing their speed or preparing to stop. When the driver applies the brakes, the brake lights illuminate, providing a visual signal that the vehicle is decelerating. This communication helps prevent rear-end collisions, as other drivers can see that the vehicle in front of them is slowing down, allowing them to react in a timely manner.

In contrast, the other options refer to different functions. For instance, acceleration is indicated by the absence of brake lights being illuminated, while reverse lights are used to show that a vehicle is moving backward. Turn signals are provided to indicate intentions to change lanes or make turns, serving a different purpose in the realm of communication on the road. Understanding the specific role of brake lights is vital for safe driving practices.