When Should You Use Your Indicators?

One of the first things that you will learn when you start taking driving lessons is that your indicators are a crucial means for telling other road users what you intend to do with your vehicle. Failure to use them properly can lead to confusion on the road, which can sometimes result in accidents happening. With that in mind, we’ve list a few of the most common situations where you need to use your indicators.

At A Junction

This is the most obvious use of your indicators. As you approach a junction you should indicate which way you intend to turn so that cars behind you, and people who are crossing the road nearby, understand what you intend to do. This should be done on the approach, rather than when you reach the junction.

Roundabouts

Much like with junctions, other road users need to know what you are doing when you are on a roundabout. It could be argued that your indicators are even more important here, as the traffic around you is constantly moving, increasing the scope for accidents. If you are unsure when you need to indicate for each turning, discuss the issue with your driving instructor.

When Pulling Away

It is wise to err on the side of caution on signal whenever you pull away. This has to be done if there are any pedestrians, cyclists or other road users nearby. If there is nobody nearby you don’t have to do it, but it won’t count as a strike against you during your test if you do.

When Overtaking

Regardless of the type of road you are driving on or how busy it is, you should always use your indicators when you decide to overtake another vehicle.

Switching Lanes

As you start to drive more regularly on dual carriageways and, once you have passed your test, motorways, you are going to see how important it is there to be aware of what other cars intend to do on multi-lane roads. You should always indicate before switching roads, while also using your mirrors and observations to ensure the way is clear.

Moving Around A Parked Car

As long as the road is clear and you can move straight around the car you do not need to indicate. However, if you have stopped to let traffic on the other side of the road through, it is wise to use your indicators to show cars behind you that you are not parking.

A Turn In The Road

Despite the number of turns that can be used in this manoeuvre, you do not need to indicate when doing it. It is more important that you focus on your surroundings at the vehicle itself.

Parallel Parking and Reversing Around Corners

Both of this manoeuvres require you to pull past the area that you will be reversing into, which means you need to indicate to let other drivers know your intentions. This is particularly true when pulling up in front of other road users to start the move.