Turn Signal Etiquette: How and When to Use Your Blinker Properly
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If you’ve ever been behind a driver who doesn’t use a turn signal, you know how frustrating this can be. Proper use of turn signals is crucial for road safety, yet many drivers fail to use them correctly, which can lead to miscommunication and accidents. This guide for new and experienced drivers alike explains the ins and outs of proper turn signal usage as well safe signal practices, signal neglect, driving in the correct lane, and the consequences of distracted driving.
Understanding Turn Signal Importance
Your turn signal switch is not optional! In fact, national law requires the use of turn signals. When you use signal indicators correctly, you not only improve traffic flow and reduce confusion among other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, but you also increase road safety for all.
Turn signal neglect and failure to use signal lights cause more than 2 million accidents each year. Comprehensive driving lessons should always include a focus on proper usage of turn signals.
Signaling in Advance: Why It's Crucial
If you are going to turn, change lanes, or pull over, you should signal your intended direction or move at least 100 feet ahead of time. This is typically about five seconds.
Signaling in advance gives other drivers time to react and adjust their speed or positioning if needed.
Proper Use of Turn Signals During Lane Changes
When you are planning on changing lanes in traffic, proper use of turn signals is critical to prevent accidents and incidents.
Here are the steps to take:
- Activate your turn signal bulb to indicate which lane you intend to move into.
- Check your mirrors and watch for blind spots before making a move.
- When you can safely change lanes, do so, then turn off your turn signal to prevent confusion.
Even if your vehicle is in a stationary position in a parking lot, for instance, a turn signal can show others nearby where you are planning to go.
Indicating Turns at Intersections
When you are coming to an intersection, even if there is a turn sign indicated on the road or a street sign, you are still required to show the direction you intend to turn with your turn signal.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make with Turn Signals
Drivers make several common mistakes when it comes to turn signals. Next time you find yourself out on the open road, try to avoid the following issues:
- Forgetting to turn the signal off after a turn: Not only is this really annoying to the driver behind you, who has to stare at a constantly blinking turn signal, but it is also confusing. Drivers might think you are still trying to change lanes or turns when, in fact, you have already done so. Many cars have turn signals that automatically click off after a turn, but this doesn't work with more subtle lane changes.
- Signaling too late (or not at all). A careless last-second turn signal or failure to signal at all can be both dangerous and frustrating for other drivers. Give yourself ample time to turn your signal on before making a turn, lane change, or pulling over. Don't wait until you're starting to hit the brake pedal to signal a turn. However, turning your signal on too early can also be confusing if there are multiple turn options along the way.
- Using hazard lights instead of turn signals when stopping: Hazard lights are named as such for a reason: They stand out in the case of a hazard or serious issue. However, they are not a good replacement for turn signals when stopping.
- Turning on the wrong signal due to habit or distraction: If you rarely make a turn from the left lane, for example, you might click your right turn signal on out of habit. Pay attention and avoid distracted driving.
If you drive a manual car, you obviously have more to think about when you are shifting gears or speeding up.
The Dangers of Neglecting to Use Turn Signals
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents today. When you neglect to properly use turn signals, you increase the chances of accidents, including getting rear-ended or doing the same to another car, hitting a pedestrian or biker who didn't realize you were turning their way, or crashing into a car that is in your blind spot.
Simply put, neglecting to use your turn signals might seem like no big deal, but it is very dangerous. Your right and left turn signals are equally important when you are driving.
Encouraging Responsible Driving: A Cultural Shift
You can prevent insurance claims and support safer driving conditions when you use your turn signals properly. It is a simple step that can make a big difference for both you and others on the road. Auto insurance is another key component to safe driving. You can review auto insurance quotes, compare prices and offers side by side, and learn more about your insurance options with a custom car insurance quote from EverQuote. Visit EverQuote today to take your responsible driving to the next level.