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Your car’s turn signals and lights aren’t just decorative accessories, but essential tools for road safety. They are how you communicate your intentions to other drivers and pedestrians, helping to prevent accidents and improve traffic flow. Here’s how to use them properly, along with practical tips.
Turn signals: how and when to use them correctly
Activate the indicators:
- To turn left: Lower the turn signal lever.
- To turn right: Raise the turn signal lever.
Important: After turning, the lever usually returns to its neutral position by itself. If it doesn’t, turn it off manually so as not to confuse other drivers.
When you should use your turn signals:
- Before changing lanes: turn it on a few seconds before the move.
- At roundabouts: activate it when exiting the roundabout.
- When parking: both when stopping and when merging, the turn signal must be on.
Common mistake: Not turning off the turn signal after using it creates confusion and risk.
Vehicle lights: when and how to use them
Low and high beams (low and high):
- To activate the high beams: Push the lever forward.
- To return to low beams: Pull the lever towards you.
- To make a flash: Quickly move the lever forward.
Warning: Only use your high beams on dark roads and without traffic head-on, as they may dazzle other drivers.
Side and fog lights:
- Position lights: useful in low visibility conditions without the need to turn on low beams.
- Fog lights: essential in dense fog or heavy rain. Don’t leave them on unnecessarily.
Modern technology at the service of your security
Many vehicles today include automatic systems to facilitate the use of lights:
- Automatic light switch-on: activated when there is little ambient light.
- Adaptive lighting: adjusts the beam according to the turn of the steering wheel, ideal for curves.
- Automatic switching between high and low beams: detects nearby vehicles and adapts the intensity.
Recommendation: even if your car has these functions, always check the lights before driving.
Best practices for safe driving
- Anticipate your movements: always use your turn signals before changing lanes or turning.
- Check the lights regularly: a damaged bulb can mean a fine and puts everyone at risk.
- I complied with the rules: using the lights incorrectly complicates the driving of others and generates dangerous situations.
Good driving is not only based on knowing how to drive, but also on communicating correctly with others on the road. Responsible use of turn signals and lights may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in safety. Adopt these practices every time you get behind the wheel.
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