Right Ways of Using Turn Signals – Safety and Etiquette

One of the crucial parts of safe driving is letting other drivers know what movement you’re about to make. And for this, drivers use turn signals. A turn signal is an essential tool for communicating with other drivers. In particular, it allows you to signal a change of direction or lane so that other drivers and pedestrians get to know about your movement. 

Once you warn a driver using a turn signal, the driver can adopt the correct speed and avoid overtaking you. As per the law in the UAE, a driver must use indicators to alert other drivers. (Article 10.2, UAE Federal Traffic Law, Number 21, 1995).

In the following guide, you will explore the benefits of using turn signals and how you can do that. 

When Should Turn Signals be Used?

Use turn signals in any of the following situations:

• Whenever you take a turn or change the direction
• Parking on the side of the street
• When you take a U-turn
• Pulling over to the side of the road
• Before you change lanes
• When you slow down or stop a vehicle
• Entering a driveway or parking lot
• When entering the flow of traffic

How to Use Turn Signals Correctly

The turn signal is quite useful during manoeuvres. The use of car turn signals in a roundabout is a significant safety issue. Using turn signals also contributes to making the traffic flow smooth and helps other users to anticipate your positions.

• Before using a turn signal, make sure you slow down the vehicle. 
• Turn on a brake light to indicate that you are slowing down to turn. 
• Make sure you have signalled the right direction. For instance, if you go to the right, mark the turn to the right, and vice versa.
• Check if the arrow turns itself off after turning left or right. Normally, the signal will automatically turn off after the car detects that the steering wheel has been turned to the corresponding side. 
• When the turning angle is less than 90° or even when it is necessary to change lanes, the side indicator may remain on. This can confuse other drivers, so always check to see if it automatically shuts off after the movement ends.
• Give the turn signal before braking so other drivers know you will slow down.
• First look in the rear-view mirrors if you have the free way to do it, check the neutral point and do it with caution.
• Observe the pedestrian bicyclists, or motorcyclists crossing where the turn is going to be made.
• Look over your right shoulder to make sure the path is clear.
• When passing on the road, use the before and after directions. This indicates to other drivers about the manoeuvre you are performing. Remember that passing is only allowed on two-way roads and when there are sections with a dotted line. Learn to use them as a necessary security habit.
• Constantly check that the lane assist works correctly and in case of failure, change them immediately. It’s for your safety.
• Remember that a preventive driver identifies what is happening on the road and anticipates the movements and manoeuvres of others. 

Besides, use side indicators when changing lanes. Drivers unfamiliar with the location or who cannot see the turn because several cars are in front can see the light. Also, if your vehicle has a lane departure system or road departure system, then you will be notified about the risk involved in changing lanes. 

In addition, it is mandatory, by the traffic code, to use the arrow in all situations where you are going to change direction. Giving the turn signal too early can make other drivers think their car will pull into a parking lot or street. This is why use the signal for at least 100 feet before you turn right or left. Also, give a turn signal 5 seconds prior to changing lanes on highways in the UAE.

How to Use Hand Signals for Turning and Stopping

Drivers must use indicators for taking turns or changing lanes. Because it isn’t safe and using hand signals to take sides and turns is not encouraged in the UAE. However, you only should hand turn signals when your brake light or indicators aren’t working. 

You can roll down the driver’s side window and extend your arm out of it.

• Extend your arm straight outwards if you are turning left. 
• If you are turning right, bend your arm a little with your hand pointing upward.
• If you intend to stop a vehicle, extend your arm out of the window and forearm pointing toward the ground. Also, make sure your palm is open and facing the drivers behind you 

Safety Rules to Follow When Using Turn Signals

Using your turn signals while changing lanes or taking turns ensures your safety and that of other drivers. But this measure is not enough. You must also observe other security measures. When you change lanes, start your manoeuvres. Some tips to drive around the roundabout in the UAE:

• You should check your mirrors carefully and check your right blind spot before changing lanes to the right. Many modern car brands come with blind-spot monitoring systems (BMS). It is considered one of the must-have car features you look for. 
• Only then can you turn on your turn signal indicator. Blind spots and mirrors should be checked again when leaving the roundabout.
• Always test the indicator to verify if it is working. 
• Use arrow keys whenever you need to turn or change lanes.
• Look for other drivers when changing lanes or if any pedestrians are crossing when changing lanes.
• When signalling, always keep one hand on the steering wheel. 

This is all about using turn signals correctly. Make sure you activate your turn signal before you plan to change lanes. Also, never try to drive in another driver’s blind spot since they won’t be able to see you when changing lanes. 

If you are looking for a car with modern safety features, such as LDS, RDS and blind spot monitoring system, browse through the listing of used cars for sale in the UAE. Here you can find a range of street-legal vehicles that fit your safety requirements.

Stay in touch with the UAE’s favourite auto blog for more safe driving tips.