I use it literally everywhere out of habit, I got made fun of for using it when pulling out of my moms driveway once lol

The only reason I won’t possibly use it is when I’m in a turn only lane at a red light and don’t want to listen to it for 3 minutes

Most people I find only use it 75% of the time at best.
I’m 2.5 years into driving and am curious if it’s just what semi-new drivers do or if I’m the odd one out.

        • Serinus@lemmy.world
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          14 days ago

          I use it as soon as it’s clear what it means. If there are multiple turns, that might be four seconds so that they don’t expect me to turn early. I’ll typically hit it in the middle of the intersection of the first turn.

          If there’s no earlier option to turn, I’ll absolutely leave it on for 10-15 seconds.

  • shaggyb@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    Yes. Don’t listen to people who tell you not to.

    The indicator is for communicating your intent to change the position (which lane you’re in) or direction (turning in or out of a road, parking space, etc.) of your car.

    The safest thing you can do as a driver is to be PREDICTABLE to other drivers. The indicator communicates necessary information for other drivers to predict your actions.

    Not using one when changing the position or direction of your car is inconsiderate and dangerous to other road users. It is also illegal.

    Use them. Please.

    • zqps@sh.itjust.works
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      14 days ago

      Not just to drivers.

      There’s nothing more annoying as a pedestrian than a vehicle whose driver has seemingly decided to run into you because they 1) didn’t think to use their signals and 2) mostly just checked for car traffic until you’re right in front of their bumper.

      • shaggyb@lemmy.world
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        14 days ago

        Very much this.

        I was hoping to imply that with the phrase “road users” but I wasn’t explicit about it.

        Cyclists too. If you can’t keep a cyclist safe you shouldn’t be allowed in a car.

  • Glytch@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    Of course I do. My goal while driving is to be predictable so I can minimize the chances of causing an accident.

    • Dr. Moose@lemmy.world
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      14 days ago

      Yeah man operating machinery is awesome. Doing it respectful and responsible way is extra satisfying. People really look down on cars but it’s an awesome technology!

  • AbouBenAdhem@lemmy.world
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    10 days ago

    Using it 75% of the time is harder than using it all the time, because it means you’re consciously thinking about it each time instead of doing it reflexively.

    • warbond@lemmy.world
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      14 days ago

      I used to try to use them 100%, but there are so many situations where it’s completely unwarranted (in my specific driving circumstances). So I guess I default to using my indicators, but I try to use them the right way, i.e. before a lane change rather than after I’ve started to commit.

      Also, I used to put on my indicator for a lane change nice and early, but dear god the way these cars warn about your blind spot being occupied, holy shit. Music turns down, loud beeping, it’s madness.

  • whotookkarl@lemmy.world
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    13 days ago

    Use your blinker, return your cart to the corral, and mind your business

    I’m sure I’ve missed it sometimes over the years, but if you make it a habit it’s harder to forget or ignore

  • Obinice@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    Indicators?

    Yes, only pillocks don’t use their indicators. They’re an essential method of communication between vehicles and for pedestrians, and an essential safety feature.

    I cannot stress this enough, people who don’t use their indicators are massive twats and shouldn’t be on the road.

    They’re a danger to themselves and everybody around them.

  • Barking@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    I get really annoyed when people don’t use them. My psychic powers are terrible and I like to not have people suddenly change lanes in front of me or cut me off on the road.

    Blinkers are not just for special occasions or discos!

  • MTK@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    Making funof someone for doing the responsible thing is childish and stupid.

    As long as you are using them to indicate intent you are using them correctly. At worst you are being extra clear to drivers around you. If you don’t use them though, at worst you are an unpredictable driver that might be involved in a crash.

    Fuck the people that made fun of you.

    P. S I use them any time I do something that isn’t driving straight, i don’t care if there are others around me, if it’s a single lane, if it’s obvious, etc. Every time I stray from a straight line I signal it.

  • jimmux@programming.dev
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    13 days ago

    It’s actually easier to just use it every time. Deciding whether you need to is cognitive load that’s better spent on other things.

  • CaptPretentious@lemmy.world
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    14 days ago

    I use them 100% of the time. Which yes, includes my own driveway.

    You should train yourself to use them automatically instead of a manual step. Like a reflex.

    And if you’re at a light and you plan to turn, you have that blinker going. Even if it’s a long red light, even if you think no one is around.

  • PieMePlenty@lemmy.world
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    13 days ago

    Its the only way you can signal your intentions. Being predictable is the best way to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. Combine these two and its a no brainer. Always use them.