Endorsing Turn Signal Vigilance

Turn signals are one of those elements of Automobile safety that is often overlooked. No doubt, it is courteous to indicate to other drivers that you intend to turn. What’s more, using turn signals defends against rear end collisions, something everyone intends to avoid.

Failing to use your turn signal can result in a $96 parking ticket, and multiple transgressions will result in more severe penalties. Frankly, penalties are not harsh enough given the frequency of car accidents and the devastation that follows in their wake. Even Kate Hastings, Director of Marketing and longtime enthusiast of personal injury law was involved in an accident due to another driver’s failure to trigger his turn signal. 

“I can’t stand when people don’t use a turn signal but it’s something I think has been getting worse…I was also in my first accident because someone didn’t use a signal, changed lanes, and hit my back passenger door which is a surprisingly big pain to get replaced,” Katie Hastings said. 

The Arizona state law reads as follows: A) “A person shall not turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position on the roadway as required in section 28-751, or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left on a roadway unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety. A person shall not so turn any vehicle without giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided by this article in the event any other traffic may be affected by the movement;” B) 2) “A signal of intention to turn right or left when required shall be given continuously during not less than the last one hundred feet traveled by the vehicle before turning;” 3) “A person shall not stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided by this article to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give the signal.”

Indeed, although turn signals seem like a minor concern they can actually save your life. Be ever vigilant when operating a motor vehicle and pay attention to the little things.