Looking for studies on headlight modulators and brake flashers

[ameli0rate]

I'm striking out, I am looking for studies on headlight modulators and brakelight flashers. I could have sworn I've read somewhere that they are pointless/useless or possibly even dangerous - but I can't find anything other than opinion and anecdotes.

Are there actual studies and if so, does anyone have links to them?

 

[jzchen]

I'm not sure if any studies are available, but I had a thought. These last two weeks I've driven last two vehicles in the next lane over stopped basically. It seemed like they were stuck trying to change lanes into my lane, BUT their signal lamp was not blinking, (one appeared to be a late model Kia/Hyundai, and then just yesterday a Tesla). Once I passed them I notice the front signal IS blinking, BUT blinking at a normal pace. My conclusion was that these poor owners are used to the hyper flash that older cars would do to warn that a signal bulb on that side has burnt out.
So these blinking brake lights for example, they would be interpreted as the driver pulsing his/her brakes incorrectly, vs trying to slow down with full depress. Not good, may increase rear enders...

 

[EJR]

Found this one HERE.

And check out this post for a detailed discussion on the subject.

Just a reminder though - flashing/pulsing brake lights and CHMSLs are not permitted per US federal lighting regulations. The standard requires them to be "steady burning".