Drivers are usually the ones who cause car accidents in most of the cases reported. They either drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drive too fast, get distracted while driving (they may be using their phones or even be listening to loud music) or just do not understand the essential car safety features. This is sad, considering that in the current technological era, cars have been fitted with all sorts of functions ranging from automatic brakes to back and side cameras. These are all supposed to aid the driver in making his experience easier so that accidents are minimized.
One officer John Perrine of the Indiana State Police Department noticed this, and decide to share a few tips with his Facebook followers. In his video, he demonstrated the use and importance of the turn signal as both a measure of accident prevention and a show of courtesy. The officer advised his viewers how to identify it in their cars and use it so that they may not find themselves in crash accidents.
Officer Perrine starts the video by pointing out that there have been incredible technological advancements particularly in the auto industry that have seen cars fitted with additional features for more safety. The man says that he would like to show his viewers one such element that is found in almost every vehicle but is rarely used. He adds that the piece of equipment helps prevent car crashes and road rage.
The officer then moves to his police patrol and response car where the window on the driver’s side is lowered. He points toward the left side of the steering wheel to reveal a stick which he calls a turn signal. He then goes ahead and demonstrates what happens when it is pushed down; the lights at the front and back of the left side of the car start flashing, which indicates to other drivers that the vehicle is going to turn to the left.
John pauses his demonstration to point out that when using the turn signal, the driver will have to free his left hand from whatever he is holding. This will ensure that one is on the steering wheel while the other is operating the signal. He then continues by saying that when pushed up, the turn signal will indicate that the car is going to turn to the right.
He goes ahead to remind his viewers that it is against the law to make a turn without using it. It is also courteous to let other road users know that the car will be turning in either direction so that they can give it the time and space to do so. This will be very helpful in preventing cars from bumping into each other which could lead to gruesome accidents.
In addition to the officer’s words, drivers are also advised to remember to turn off their signals after making the turn. Usually, it automatically turns itself off, but it may not do so if the corner was less than 90 degrees. The signal should also be turned on when moving out of a parking lot, entering traffic or a major highway and when one wants to switch lanes in traffic. The signal should not be turned on too early.