The system of car control - Part 10

The first phase in the System of Car Control is Information: taking, using and giving it, which runs through all the other phases.  We discussed this phase in the May 2004 issue, in the second article in this series.

We now need to focus in more detail on giving information, in the form of signals made by the driver.  Roadcraft has a whole chapter (Chapter 6) on this topic and it is summarised in this article.  Drivers’ signals include direction indicators, headlights, use of the horn, hazard flashers and brakelights, and hand signals, including courtesy signals.  Roadcraft asserts that many drivers do not use their signals consistently, and do not know how to make the most effective use of the full range of signals available to them. 

The advice in Roadcraft is not to signal indiscriminately: it states ‘Only give a signal when another road user will benefit from it.’  Other road users use your position and speed to interpret what your signals mean; these are the key points to remember:

• Consider the need to give a signal on the approach to every hazard, and before you change direction or speed;

• Give a signal whenever it could benefit other road users;

• Remember that the signal does not give you any special right to carry out the actions you indicate;

• Follow the Highway Code – check your mirrors before you signal or manoeuvre.

Using direction indicators

Use your direction indicators in good time – for example, signal well before starting to change lanes on a motorway.  Consider how other road users will interpret your signals:

• Left indicator – do you intend to turn into the next junction on the left, or to pull in and stop by the roadside – or have you forgotten to cancel your signal following your last left turn?

• Right indicator – do you intend to turn right, or to pull out to pass a parked vehicle?

In cases where the signal might be misinterpreted, consider backing up your direction indicator with an arm signal.

Using the horn

Sound your horn when it could benefit pedestrians and other road users in situations where they might not have noticed you or cannot see you.  Consider using the horn on the approach to any hazard.  Do not use the horn to challenge or rebuke other road users.  Use your horn in good time and adjust the length of the note to the circumstances.

Using hazard warning lights

Use hazard warning lights to alert other drivers to your presence only when you have stopped.  Do not use hazard warning lights when moving except on unrestricted dual carriageways and motorways: here you can use them briefly to warn the vehicles behind that there is a hold-up.

Using brakelights 

Brakelights are used to indicate either slowing down or your intention to stop.  Remember to check in your mirrors before using your brakes.  Use your brakelights as an early indication that you intend to slow down: lightly touch your brakes, possibly more than once, well before the anticipated hazard, to alert the driver behind to your intention.  This is especially useful when the driver behind is too close.

Flashing your headlights

Use headlight flashes when the horn would not be heard, and in place of the horn at night.  They should be used for only one purpose: to warn other road users that you are there.  Never assume that a headlamp flash from another road user is a signal to proceed.  During darkness use headlight flashes to warn other road users of your presence: on the approach to a hill crest; on very narrow, winding roads; and before overtaking another vehicle.

Using arm signals

Although arm signals are no longer used regularly, you should know what they mean and how to give them in accordance with the Highway Code.  Arm signals are very useful in reinforcing other signals in ambiguous situations.  Do not use them when you need both hands on the steering wheel for control, such as during heavy braking or sharp cornering.

Using courtesy signals

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