Turn signals may be the most underutilized device on a car. Yet signaling is one of the most important actions you can take as a driver, warning other drivers of your impending moves to minimize hazardous surprises. You might not see a car in your blind spot, but that car's driver might see your turn signal start to blink before you move into his lane.

Failing to signal may be the cause of quite a few accidents and is probably a big source of "road rage" as well. Providing adequate warning of an intended maneuver, particularly in heavy traffic, is not only courteous, it is a safety precaution. Any change in direction of travel affects other drivers. The nature of the chain reaction which follows depends on the length and clarity of the notice given. Most importantly, it should always be aforethought that deploying your turn signal does not imply any priority of passage nor guarantee acknowledgment. That is to say, while the responsibility rests with one driver to signal his intentions, it is equally onerous of all drivers and even pedestrians to be aware of each other's presence and behavior.

Signaling does not give you the right-of-way. Signaling lets other drivers know that you are going to do something different and gives them time to react to your move. Using your turn signals is a form of communicating which means clearly showing other drivers and pedestrians what you plan to do early enough to avoid a collision. Any time you plan to change directions, use your turn signals - whether you are changing lanes, turning at an intersection or driveway, entering a freeway, pulling away from a curb or pulling off to the side of the road. Develop the habit of using your turn signals even when you do not see other vehicles on the road.

The vehicle you do not see is the most dangerous one. Here are some rules to follow:

	Signal at least 4 seconds before you turn so other drivers will have time to react.
	If you plan to turn beyond an intersection, do not signal until you are in the intersection (drivers in the intersection may pull into your path.
	After you complete your move, be sure your turn signal is off.

Arizona law designates which lanes and positions you must use when turning and requires you to signal at least 100 feet before you turn. Remember, what you do can affect the driver behind you and in front of you. Communicate your plan and use your turn or arm signals.

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The Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division now places their Arizona Drivers License Manual on-line for review of traffic laws.

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