7. Use Indicators for Turns and Lane Changes

Indicators (also called turn signals or blinkers) are your vehicle’s way of communicating with others.

They tell drivers, riders, and pedestrians what you plan to do next.

Using them properly is one of the simplest ways to prevent accidents and drive responsibly.

Why Indicators Matter

Let others anticipate your movement
Prevent collisions during turns or lane changes
Help maintain smooth traffic flow
Reduce confusion and road rage

Driving without indicators is like changing lanes blindfolded. Others can’t read your mind.

Lane Changes on Highways

Changing lanes on highways requires extra caution because vehicles move at high speeds and reaction time is limited.

✅ Best Practices

Use your indicator at least 3 seconds before changing lanes
Check rearview and side mirrors for approaching vehicles
Look over your shoulder to check blind spots
Change lanes smoothly, avoid sudden swerves
Avoid frequent lane switching, it confuses others and increases risk

On Indian highways, abrupt lane changes without signaling are a major cause of side-impact collisions and pile-ups.

Should You Use Indicators in Parking Areas?

Yes. Indicators are useful even in parking lots and residential complexes.

Why It Matters:

Pedestrians and other drivers may not expect sudden turns or exits
Helps avoid minor scrapes and confusion in tight spaces
Signals your intent to reverse, park, or exit a spot

Even at low speeds, clear communication prevents misunderstandings and keeps everyone safe.

Common Scenarios in India

Turning into narrow lanes or bylanes
Overtaking autos, trucks, or cyclists
Changing lanes on congested highways
Navigating roundabouts or U-turns
Parking or pulling over on busy streets

In all these cases, using indicators is not optional, it’s actually essential.

Turn Indicators for Bikes and Two-Wheelers

Honda CB350RS turn indicator — Picture credit: bikewale

Using indicators on bikes is just as important, if not more, than in cars.

Two-wheelers are smaller, harder to spot, and more vulnerable in traffic. Signaling your intent clearly can prevent serious accidents.

Why It’s Critical:

Two-wheelers are often overtaken or squeezed between larger vehicles. Signaling helps others give you space.
Sudden turns without indicators can lead to side-impact crashes, especially at intersections or roundabouts.
Many bike riders rely on hand signals, but these are less visible at night or in fast-moving traffic.

In India, a large number of two-wheeler accidents happen due to poor signaling or no signaling at all.

Best Practices:

Always use your electronic indicators, even for short turns or lane shifts.
Avoid hand signals unless your indicators are broken and get them repaired immediately.
Cancel the indicator after completing the turn to avoid confusing others.
Use hazard lights only when stopped or in emergencies, not while riding. It may look cool to you but NOT to others.

Common Mistakes:

Forgetting to signal while overtaking or merging
Using hand signals in heavy traffic or at night
Leaving indicators on after the turn is complete

Whether you're riding a scooter or a motorcycle, your indicators are your lifeline, use them every time.

What Happens When You Don’t Use Them

Sudden turns or lane changes can cause side-impact crashes
Two-wheelers may get squeezed or hit
Pedestrians may misjudge your movement
You may be fined for negligent driving

Many minor accidents in India happen simply because someone didn’t signal their turn.

NOTE

Just using turn indicators while changing lane is NOT enough.

You also need to look at your side view mirrors & check blindspots before making a turn, ensuring that no vehicle is present on your side or near you.

Legal Rules and Penalties

Not using indicators is considered negligent driving under the Motor Vehicles Act
Fines range from ₹500 to ₹1,000 depending on the situation
In case of an accident, failure to signal can be used as evidence of fault

Common Myths

Myth	Reality
"I’m just turning into my own street."	Even familiar roads have traffic, always signal.
"Everyone knows I’ll turn here."	Never assume, always communicate.
"It’s daytime, people can see me."	Visibility doesn’t replace signaling. Indicators are for clarity.
"Parking areas are informal."	Indicators help avoid confusion and minor collisions, even in private spaces.

What You Should Do

Use indicators at least 3 seconds before turning or changing lanes
Cancel the signal after completing the maneuver
Check mirrors and blind spots before acting
Use hazard lights only when stopped or in emergencies, not for turning

Key Takeaways

Indicators are your voice on the road — use them clearly and consistently
Signaling helps prevent accidents and keeps traffic flowing smoothly
Don’t skip them just because the road looks empty or informal

Learn more: The Art of Following & Changing Lanes safely

Source : YouTube Location : Somewhere in Gujarat Indian truck drivers often won't use indicators and even if they use them,the lights would be full of dust and mud and they're not helpful. 💡 For trucks,always look at their wheel position with respect to lane markings. If the

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