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By law most countries require turn signals on vehicles used to drive on public roadways. Electric turn signals were established somewhere around 1925 by Edgar Waltz however they didn't make it to vehicles until the 1940s. The turn signal should be either amber or red in color for North American driving with the preference being amber.

Turn signals are super important in modern day driving. By using turn signals you are alerting everyone on the road your intentions and your next driving maneuver. This single act can prevent accidents and save lives. It is hard enough to anticipate every car on the road and constantly check your rear view mirror. Your job of driving safely just became a lot easier because the motorist in front of you is obeying the law and using their blinker.

Turn signals are sometimes unused by speedy drivers who think they are in the zone. They attempt to weave in and out of traffic without letting anyone know of their intentions. You know the driver and most likely see them on a daily basis. The simple act of using a turn signal can increase their visibility. These people are selfish drivers.

In fact most people who refused to use turn signals are selfish drivers. The bottom line is that blinkers give us those extra crucial seconds to visualize the road as its changing thus making it safer for everyone involved. Driving is all about making decisions and the more information we have, the better decisions we will make. The better decisions can add up to a better driver overall and potentially save lives.

The mechanics of driving are largely dependent on reaction time. Blinking amber lights tend to decrease our reaction time sooner than sudden movements of vehicles. Safe and courteous drivers will always use turn signals to allow others the proper time to adjust to the changing conditions.

Proper turn signal use should start at an early age. If the parent uses turn signals then it is more likely the child will use the signals when they start driving. Take a few moments to properly train your child while instructing them on driving.

Learn more about this author, Erik M. Dell.
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