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HEIDI NYLAND PHOTO
Your vehicle is outfitted with a variety of devices to help
you navigate safely during your travels, such as the steering
wheel, headlights, gas and brake pedals, seat belts, air
bags, etc. Also included, although often overlooked, is the
turn signal, or “blinker.”
The first application of a flashing electric turn signal
was used on the 1938 Buick as a new safety feature. It was
advertised by Buick as the “Flash-Way Directional Signal.”
The turn signal’s purpose is to let other drivers know of
your intention to change lanes or turn to minimize hazardous
surprises and help prevent accidents.
Although the turn signal lever is conveniently located
within mere inches of the steering wheel, countless drivers
fail to use it. While it is rarely enforced, turn-signal use
is required by law in most jurisdictions. For example, in
New York, drivers are required to use turn signals continuously
during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the
vehicle before turning.
However, many drivers incorrectly treat the use of turn
signals as a voluntary act that is left to the discretion of the
vehicle operator. This is unfortunate for other drivers on
the road.
Keynotes•Safety News
Signal for Safety
6
Do not be a lazy driver, making other drivers read
your mind. Clearly state your intentions with turn
signals, especially when trailering your horse.
KIM HINTON PHOTO
USRider notes that a contributing cause of
turn-signal non-use is in-vehicle distractions,
such as talking on the telephone.
USRider notes that a contributing cause of turn-signal
non-use is in-vehicle distractions, such as talking on the telephone.
Driving is an activity that demands close attention.
Appropriate turn-signal use is important for alerting
other drivers of your turn, when changing lanes and when
merging onto a freeway to avoid collisions. Do not be a
lazy driver, making other drivers read your mind. Clearly
state your intentions with turn signals, especially when
trailering your horse.
USRider offers these turn-signal safety tips:
• Make sure all signals are in good working order. Have a
friend check your lights from time to time. Do not pull
your horse trailer if the turn signals are not working
properly.
• Turn your signals on before you make a turn or maneuver,
not during the turn or maneuver.
• Get into the habit of using turn signals all the time, not
just when other drivers are present.
• Be an aware driver. Turn off turn signals when you have
completed your turn or maneuver.
For more information on trailering safety tips, visit the
USRider website. USR
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