When driving, we often want to communicate with another driver, not just to talk, but to tell them what we think he/she did wrong. Or maybe we want to advise them how to make driving less stressful.

It’s a good thing we can’t talk to other drivers. It might result in an argument and could escalate into something worse. However, there is a vital communication tool that we have at our fingertips and it normally doesn’t result in anything confrontational. It is called a “turn signal.” It comes with all makes and models.

Why are so many people excited about new iPhones and AI, but haven’t caught up with the awesome technology of a turn signal?

Communicating our intentions to another driver, whenever possible, is very important. Receiving communication from other drivers about their intentions is very helpful to us as well.

With a simple flick of a small lever located on the left side of the steering column, you can tell other drivers what you are going to do prior to an intersection, for example.

Other drivers will know you want to turn left or right. Along a highway, other drivers will know you are about to change a lane or make a turn and therefore will slow down to do so.

If an oncoming vehicle is signaling a turn at an intersection, we can be reasonably assured he/she is intending to turn. If we are following a vehicle that is signaling a turn in a rural area, we can begin slowing down, expecting that the vehicle we are following will be turning.

It’s amazing what a turn signal can say to other drivers. So why don’t all drivers use them? All the time? Why do so many drivers wait for a red light to turn green and then begin signaling a turn? Why do they not signal a lane change?

Using turn signals is a courteous and effective method of communicating with other drivers. Driving is often difficult and can be quite stressful. Communicating our intentions can make driving safer and more pleasurable for all.

Just for a quick review, turn signaling is required at least 100 feet (about three school buses) before a turn or a lane change. It is also mandatory when leaving a curbside parking place.

Lastly, be advised: it is NOT legal to leave your right turn signal on when stopped along the side of a street or road – in this case, use your hazard flashers.

Let’s all try to do a better job of signaling our intentions to other drivers.