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GIVING SIGNALS @ Learnwithbill.com


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	You should only give signals if they will help or warn other road users, your signal must not be misleading and you must only use signals shown in the Highway Code. The rules below apply to all signals but are especially important for direction signals.

WHY?
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.
TIMING
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. Signal before you start to brake, before you change your speed or make a position change.
UNNECESSARY SIGNALLING
You need to consider how your signal will affect other drivers. If you signal to the right every time you pass a parked car, following drivers may not realise what you are doing, if you signal to turn right they could think that you are just pulling out past another car.


	Early Signal Late Signal Unnecessary Signal


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SIGNALS INDICATORS Another common communication problem is caused by drivers who forget to cancel their signals after use.

Although most indicators are self-cancelling you should always check to ensure that they have canceled after a manoeuvre.

This is especially important after lane change manoeuvres, where the steering wheel may not turn enough to cancel the signal.



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


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BRAKE LIGHTS
Brake lights warn following drivers that you are slowing down they are activated when you press the footbrake.

It can be useful to touch the brake pedal very lightly (without slowing down) to activate the brake lights this will give drivers who are following too closely a bit more time to react when you start to slow down.

Brake lights are a signal to other road users you need to find out who you are signalling too by checking in your interior mirror before pressing the brake pedal.


	REVERSING LIGHTS Reverse lights show other people that you are in reverse gear and that you are moving backwards or likely to move backwards. You will learn about the value of reversing lights as signals when you cover the specific manoeuvres that include reversing.

	HAZARD LIGHTS Hazard lights are used when your vehicle is causing a hazard. Make sure that the lights are clearly visible to the front and rear on both sides otherwise people who see only one signal may mistake it for a direction indicator. It is now considered acceptable to use hazard warning lights on the move at times of danger when rapid deceleration is required (approaching a motorway hold-up). Switching on your hazard lights to check that all of your indicators are operating as part of your weekly vehicle check. *Hazard lights are not an excuse for poor parking.*


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	HORN The horn is a warning signal and as such it must be used early enough to be of any use. The horn can also be useful when your view is restricted on a bend on a country road. Look well ahead and if someone looks as though they might be about to pull out without seeing you, use the horn to draw their attention to your presence.


	HEADLIGHTS As with the horn flashing headlights warn other road users of your presence. Although you know who you are flashing at and what you mean others might not and this can be confusing and dangerous. You could flash to give way to a driver on the right. While you are watching him a driver on the left could pull into your path.

ROAD POSITION The position of your car ‘road position’ can be used as a signal to warn other drivers of your intentions.

After checking your mirrors and signalling (if required) consider the position you need to take up.

If possible you should aim to time your approach so that you arrive when the road is clear.

Move out early if you’re not stopping and avoid getting too close to the obstruction if you are stopping.

Stopping too close means your view ahead will be limited and other drivers may be confused into thinking that you intend to park behind the obstruction.


	ROAD POSITION


	We Will Signal Only If There Is Anyone Around Who Will Benefit