Signalling

Signals are normally given by direction indicators and/or brake lights. There are occasions when an arm signal can be helpful.

It’s important that you use the correct signal.

Use signals

• to let other road users, including pedestrians, know what you intend to do
• in good time and for long enough to allow other road users to see the signal and act upon it.

Signalling too soon can confuse rather than help – for example, when there are several side roads very close together.

Signalling too late can cause vehicles behind you to brake hard or swerve.

Watch out for situations that call for special timing in signalling. For example, when you signal to pull up on the left, make sure there isn’t a junction just before the place you intend to stop. If you signal left too soon, a driver waiting at that junction might think you intend to turn left. Delay signalling until you’re in a position where your signal can’t be misunderstood.

Unnecessary signals

A signal might not be necessary where there’s no one to benefit from it, or
where the signal could confuse other road users. Consider whether a signal is
necessary before

• moving off
• pulling up
•  passing stationary vehicles, when you can position early and maintain a
  steady course.

Don’t

• signal carelessly
• wave pedestrians across the road
• fail to check that the signal is cancelled after your movement is completed
• mislead other road users. Always use the correct signal.

Arm signals

Nowadays, arm signals are seldom used. However, there are occasions when you might need to use one.

Turning right

Use an arm signal when necessary

• to emphasise a difficult right turn on a road carrying fast-moving traffic
• to turn right just after moving out to pass a stationary vehicle.

Stopping

Use the ‘slowing down’ arm signal where any confusion to other road users might be caused by a ‘left turn’ indicator signal.

Signalling with brake lights

Brake in good time. If necessary, lightly press the brake pedal early or more than once, to show your brake lights to traffic behind you.

Using the horn

If you’re driving safely and anticipating correctly, you’ll seldom need to use the horn.

Only use it if you think other road users haven’t seen you or can’t see you.

On a blind bend or narrow winding road, the horn might help pedestrians and other road users who can’t see you coming.

Warning others of your presence doesn’t relieve you of the responsibility to drive safely. Always drive with caution.

Don’t sound your horn

• to reprimand other drivers
• aggressively
• in a built-up area between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am or while you’re stationary at any time, unless a moving vehicle creates a danger.

Flashing your headlights

Flashing the headlights has the same meaning as sounding the horn and can be used in situations where the horn might not be heard or at a time when the horn shouldn’t be used.

Avoid flashing your headlights to

• instruct other drivers
• reprimand another road user
• intimidate a driver ahead.

Other drivers flashing their headlights

Some drivers flash their headlights for a variety of reasons, including

• inviting you to pass before them
• thanking you for your courtesy
• warning you of some fault with your vehicle
• telling you your headlights are dazzling them.

When other drivers flash their headlights, the signal

• might not mean what you think
• might not be intended for you.

Make sure you know their intention before you act on the signal.