In several previous articles I have stated that a good driver is predictable. One of the best ways to be predictable is to use the turn signal properly — a great way to tell other drivers what you intend to do.

For example: if your turn signal isn’t on, other drivers would rightfully assume you are going straight. If it is blinking, other drivers would assume you are turning or intending to change lanes. But if you don’t use it properly, it will send the wrong message and lead to collisions.

For example, if I am stopped at a red light and signaling a left turn, and you are facing me on the opposite side of the intersection also waiting to turn left but don’t activate your turn signal until the light turns green, you are not being predictable or following state law. I would likely assume you intended to go straight through the intersection, which means I must yield the right of way to you.

Had you obeyed the legal requirement for signaling a turn (or lane change), which is to activate your turn signal continuously at least 100 feet prior to the turn, I would have known you intended to make a left turn. In such a case I could have made my left turn at the same time.

Be predictable! There is no way other drivers can know what you intend to do if you wait until the last second to communicate your intentions — or don’t signal at all.

Here’s another example. You are driving along a rural highway at 55-60 mph when the car you are following unexpectedly begins braking, causing you to brake harder than you like. Then, the other driver finally puts his/her turn signal on and turns into a driveway. In this example, the other driver should have begun signaling his/her intentions well in advance of the turn, letting you know in plenty of time of his or her intention. The higher the highway speed limit, the more advanced notice of your intention to turn should be communicated to other drivers.

Judging by the percentage of drivers who change lanes without using their turn signal, I wonder if they know that vehicle and traffic law requires use of the turn signal to change lanes at least 100 feet or more before the lane change. Again, being predictable is important, not just courteous, to other drivers.

Driving anywhere in today’s traffic is stressful enough. You can let other drivers know your intentions by communicating what you are about to do well in advance.

If all drivers use their turn signals properly, driving will be less stressful and much safer. Please do your part.