Whether you call them blinkers, indicators, or turn signals, these small lights play a huge role in road safety across the world. Turn signals are more than just a way to avoid frustrating other drivers—they are a vital communication tool that helps everyone on the road anticipate your next move. In this article, we’ll explore the critical importance of using turn signals and why neglecting them can lead to dangerous situations.
This morning, while driving behind another vehicle, I noticed it slowing down without any clear reason as we approached an intersection. When we finally reached the junction, the driver made a turn without signaling their intention. This, dear reader, is a common occurrence on the road. While this behavior can easily frustrate or anger many drivers, the importance of using turn signals goes far beyond just avoiding irritation.
Whether you’re pulling over to park, changing lanes, or turning off a side street, using indicators helps signal your intentions to other drivers. On roads where cars move at high speeds, this simple act can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. But just how dangerous can failing to use turn signals be?
According to a recent study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), neglecting to use turn signals is responsible for around two million accidents every year. The study found that 25% of drivers fail to use their indicators when turning, and 48% skip using them when switching lanes.
For your safety and the safety of those around you, it’s vital to signal your intentions when changing lanes or turning. Failing to use indicators can catch other drivers off guard, depriving them of critical information they need to adjust their speed or direction safely. This lack of communication can easily disrupt the flow of traffic and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Consider this: you’re driving in the left lane of a highway and want to merge into the right lane to prepare for an upcoming exit. Meanwhile, there’s a car speeding along in the right lane, with another vehicle trailing close behind, lingering in your blind spot…
Failing to signal in this situation could result in a disaster. You might start merging right as soon as the first car passes, but by using your indicator, the second driver would be alerted to your intentions. Even if they don’t slow down or change direction, they could at least honk to warn you of their presence.
In short, using turn signals isn’t optional. It’s a responsibility every driver must uphold, just like stopping at a red light.
But why do some drivers neglect to use their turn signals in the first place?
After some research, the Arab GT team identified a few reasons why drivers might skip this essential step:
Laziness
It may sound surprising, but some drivers simply find it too much effort to flick the turn signal lever. In a survey conducted by the American insurance company, Response, 23% of drivers admitted to skipping their turn signals out of sheer laziness. If signaling requires this much effort, one has to wonder how they manage the energy to sit behind the wheel in the first place!
Forcing Their Way In
In heavy traffic, many drivers are reluctant to let others merge into their lane. To avoid getting blocked, some drivers intentionally skip using their indicators, hoping to “sneak” into the lane before anyone can prevent them. While the frustration of dealing with traffic jams is understandable, this behavior puts everyone on the road at risk.
Not Enough Time
Occasionally, a driver might need to make a sudden lane change or turn—perhaps they missed an exit or remembered it too late. In these moments of haste, they might forget to use their indicators entirely. However, this can be incredibly dangerous, as drivers behind them won’t have enough time to react, potentially leading to a collision.
I Forget!
For many, forgetting to use turn signals is simply a matter of habit, or rather, a lack of it. Some drivers develop the bad habit of ignoring indicators when they think no other cars are nearby. However, the most common issue is a misconception that turn signals aren’t all that important. It’s similar to how we might forget seemingly minor tasks, like tying our shoelaces or closing the front door.
Broken Turn Signal
Of course, there’s always the possibility that a driver’s turn signal isn’t working. While this is less common, it’s still crucial for anyone in this situation to take their car to a mechanic or repair shop as soon as possible. Failing to fix a broken signal is no less dangerous than not using one deliberately.
It’s also worth mentioning that some drivers do use their indicators but forget to turn them off after a while. This, too, can be just as dangerous and annoying as not signaling at all, as it could mislead other drivers and cause confusion on the road, potentially leading to accidents.
Maybe one day, we’ll see cars equipped with automatic turn signals that activate on their own when the car turns. But until then, it’s up to you, dear reader, to stay mindful of your surroundings and use your signals appropriately. Doing so not only improves your driving but also helps make the roads safer for everyone. Practicing safe driving habits, like using your indicators, can reduce your chances of being involved in accidents and the financial or physical consequences that often come with them. Stay safe out there, God willing!
