Indicator signals - to use or not to use?

Always indicate: that you can't see anyone doesn't mean they can't see you. And, of course, indicate BEFORE you brake.

I agree with you. When I was in the cops (overseas) I got into the habit of always signalling. But this was officially a 'fail' - nevertheless I still feel that one is not perfect & could miss another party. Best to be safe rather than sorry and I continue this to this day, rightly or wrongly.

I think they have it backwards! its the good drivers who always signal. always signaling will keep you in the habit of doing it, so when cars are around you just do it as second nature.

I always check my mirror before I signal and I still signal even if there is no-one behind / in front of me. I think there is a chance if you only signal when you think it is 'necessary' you could end up forgetting altogether and be like those drivers that seem to use telepathy.....

Well the idea behind indicators is to indicate the direction you are looking to take. So if there is nobody there to see the signal, then there is no need to use them. Ja.

The law states that you are required to signal lane changes!

The idea is that you consider any effect your intended manoeuvre might have on anyone else around, whether it's another road user or that pedestrian thinking about crossing the road. If it's appropriate you then give a signal before starting your manoeuvre. Giving a signal when there's nobody who could possibly benefit from it tends to indicate that you haven't in fact done your assessment about the effect of your manoeuvre, which is why "automatic" signalling is frowned upon. It's a lesser "offence" though than not giving a signal when it IS appropriate. As already said, there may be times when there is no-one within your sight at that precise time but someone might appear while you're at it. In that case it would be prudent to give a signal so they know immediately what you're up to. I had this discussion once with a Supervising Examiner, and he agreed with my premise. He said "That's fair enough, it shows you've thought about the possibilities . . ."

most folks fail to signal intentions and that leads to accidents, I always signal probably too much but so far have been driving since 1968 without a collision. I tend to be a defensive driver , that is I assume all other drivers with only a traffic police car being the exception to be driven by complete idiots. that way I anticipate stupid actions and have avoided many accidents by being Ready to respond to drivers sudden Lane change, cutting across and so on without any signals.

are you dislexic did you read that article sdrawkcab lol its required for all lane changes and even if there are no other cars on the road, hell its required for pulling out of your driveway or store!! its the law in america regaurdless of the state your in