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Direction signals

All modern vehicles are fitted with direction indicators at the front, rear and sides so that other road users can clearly see them.

In addition to your indicators you ca give direction signals by arm (next page).

The rules below apply to all signals but are especially important for direction signals.

Signals must be given:

Where necessary
Correctly
In good time
Without misleading others

Where necessary

If another road user will benefit from a signal, then you must give one. Other road users include pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists as well as drivers.

Sometimes you will be unsure whether a signal is necessary or not. In these cases it is usually best to give a signal.

 

Correctly

As already stated, you should only use the signals shown in the Highway Code.

Furthermore, you should only use them for their intended purpose. For example, flashing your lights to say 'hello' to a friend could result in someone pulling out in front of you unexpectedly.

 

In good time

The correct timing of signals is essential if they are going to be of use to other road users. Signalling too early or too late for junctions and other situations can be confusing.

Getting the timing right is relatively simple, make sure that your indicators flash at least five times before starting the next part of your manoeuvre, i.e., before you start to brake, accelerate or make a position change.

 

Many people forget that signals are advance warnings.

The photo on the right caught the first flash of the driver's indication to overtake ...

Signalling this late is no help to anyone.

 

Without misleading others

You need to consider how your signals will affect other drivers. You have already read one example of a misleading signal on the previous page ... here's another:

If you signal to the right every time you pass a parked car, following drivers might not realise what you are doing if you signal to turn right; they could think that you are just pulling out past another car!

 
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