People often neglect to use their turn signals. Sometimes, they just forget. Other times, they ignore them on purpose because they don't see other traffic. Still other times, they know they should use them for actual turns, but they don't use them for things like changing lanes.
Regardless, failure to use turn signals is very dangerous. Some reports claim that it leads to "millions of crashes per year and may be more dangerous than distracted driving."
Why Drivers Fail to Use Their Turn Signals
One thing to keep in mind is that forgetting to use a signal often stems from distracted driving. For instance, a driver is talking on a cellphone while driving. They have one hand on the wheel and the other on the phone. When it's time to turn, they have no way to use the signal without setting the phone down or letting go of the wheel entirely. They decide to simply not signal and make their turn.
Even a moment of confusion on the road can lead to an accident. Things happen very quickly at highway speeds. When a driver doesn't signal and just starts merging or turning, they could get hit by someone in their blind spot who has no idea they're about to switch lanes, or by a driver who is turning and thinks the other car will carry on straight through the intersection. Remember, other drivers cannot know what you plan to do unless you tell them, so you must use your signal.
If someone else fails to use theirs and you are involved in a car accident, make sure you know what legal options you have for seeking compensation.
Tips for Using Turn Signals Safely
To avoid such an accident, here are a few tips:
- Develop a habit of signaling every single time you change direction. Signal even when you do not see anyone else around. After all, it’s easy to miss someone who needs to know what you are doing.
- Signal as early as you can. Try and signal at least three seconds before you make your move. You must signal at least 100 feet before a turn if the speed limit is 45 mph or less. If the speed limit is faster than 45 mph, you must signal at least 300 feet before you turn.
- Be careful that you do not signal too early. If there are streets, driveways, or entrances between you and where you want to turn, wait until you have passed them to signal.
- If another vehicle is about to enter the street between you and where you plan to turn, wait until you have passed it to signal your turn. If you signal earlier, the other driver may think you plan to turn where that driver is, and he or she might pull into your path.
In short, ALWAYS SIGNAL when you are going to:
- Change lanes.
- Make a turn.
- Pull away from a parking space that is parallel to the curb.
- Slow down or stop.
Updated June 23, 2020. According to La Feria News, these tips for using turn signals will help you drive safely and may even save your life.