I Drive Home Without Signalling!

I'm not saying signals aren't important, but sometimes they're not as important as most people realise.
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[@ashley_neal]

I knew a big proportion of people wouldn't get this one as they are so signal orientated. The big take people need from this video is the ability to constantly watch around and understand what you are doing with your car is telling a story to others. Are you that conscious of exactly where people are and what you are doing, or do you just put the signal on? Please comment below on other situations other than I mention where not signalling would become a danger. 👍

[@ZEN43D]

Can you give any examples of where correct signalling would be more dangerous than not signalling? If not why encourage people to break the habit?

[@ashley_neal]

Break the habit! Sums it up perfectly as a signal should not be a habit as it should be applied to suit each situation. If it's routine, there is not enough thought about it.

[@redtela]

I commented that I understand your point. I just think that "not signalling" should NOT be encouraged in any way - we should encourage PROPER signalling - and demonstrate the use cases where no signalling is appropriate (99% of the time in the video, signalling at the correct time would not have increased the danger, and might have helped another road user not misinterpret what you were doing)

[@GovernmentName95]

Thing is Ash, that relies on other people taking the initiative to read your clues, and unfortunately, as I’m sure you’ve seen especially drivers in Liverpool, most people are a bit dim 😂 in an ideal world this would probably work!

[@ZEN43D]

@@ashley_neal So you cant give any situation where a correct signal would be more dangerous than no signal? As per highway code section 103: 'You should ALWAYS - use them to advise other road users before changing course or direction, stopping or moving off' So yes, they should be a habit you get into when changing direction.

[@fredwest2234]

Signalling is not just about safety, but is a form of courtesy to other road users.

[@PedroConejo1939]

Exactly.

[@matthewhenthorn3343]

true there. The common phrase of "i can't read your mind" is applicable. i've used signels to show i plan on pulling in to passing spaces so cars ahead can choose to move forwards, if they need to.

[@johnkent-thanet-uk]

Yes, agree common courtesy is important and not indicating leans to bad driving habits.

[@ethelmini]

A greater courtesy would be putting this sort of effort in to your driving so you don't involve them in accidents. If you're thinking "I can signal & let that car out," instead of observing the motorbike overtaking you, you aren't doing anyone any favours.

[@johnkent-thanet-uk]

@Nicky L Oh dear 😢

[@mackattack192]

Signaling correctly at roundabouts helps out us truck drivers massively because we need such a big gap

[@ethelmini]

Do you - or rather should you? Traffic on the roundabout has priority. If a car goes racing through the give way line after a truck has crossed theirs to enter it ahead of them the car is at fault. Fully appreciate we all have to drive in the real world where idiots create accidents and share them with us.

[@frostlegionx6611]

Its the same for us bus drivers too!

[@eddyrourke5514]

I was going to say exactly the same thing Mack being a HGV driver too. I felt really frustrated watching this as I can see any of the no signal brigade who see this using it as self justification.

[@craighenderson9517]

@@frostlegionx6611 especially when you have a bad bus with little acceleration or throttle lag 😅

[@pelicanofpunishment6]

Absolutely right. I'll always signal at roundabouts when other traffic is on the roads (Night driver so not often needed) especially to help out my fellow HGV/large vehicle drivers.

[@stomlinson32ify]

I think not using indicators even when it’s safe could be irritating to other drivers , “Why’s he’s slowing down?” “ Is he turning left at the roundabout, it looks like it but I’d better wait a little bit longer than normal just to see he is” . Always use indicators just to keep everyone happy and traffic flowing at it’s best.

[@farmersmith7057]

Exactly! Indicators show intent so the driver behind doesn’t have to guess what you are going to do next. When he says “I’m slowing down to control the car behind. Now he’s slowed down. Do I need to signal?” If I was the car behind, I’d be wondering why you were slowing down when it wasn’t clear if you were going straight on or turning. Causing unnecessary confusion is just bizarre and causing a problem that’s solved by…indicating what you are going to do next.

[@ynotnilknarf39]

This is the retarded mentality of motorists, instilled in them (by encouraging making progress from driving instructors and the selling of motor cars being a freedom tool) that they cannot be slowed at any juncture before getting angry/negative thoughts

[@Mrtwistedblack]

The mirror, signal and maneuver applies whether stationary or moving, the indication should always come before braking to allow other road users the most amount of time to make their decision.

[@DC-dp3hk]

What is the point of not indicating what your intentions are as long as they are made at the appropriate time. It's no big effort to use your indicators, it's what they are there for after all.

[@nickgould4521]

I always understood that if you want to turn left at a roundabout, you indicate left, if you want any of the other turnings, you indicate right, and when you've past the last turning before the one that you want, you then indicate left, unless they've changed the highway code.

[@margaretnicol3423]

I appreciate that car positioning and speed is a clue but indicating makes it so much easier to see clearly what you're doing.

[@ethelmini]

Your headlights would be brighter 😏

[@stestar09]

@@ethelmini horn - 1 beep for left - 2 for right 4 for straight get out of the way

[@jonathonrobinson6081]

@@ethelmini If you cannot see an indicator as well as the headlights then you should get your eyes tested.

[@zaink7037]

The way I see it indicating helps better give people your intentions plus it's just simple as raising your hand to flick a stalk which makes me think people who don't indicate on the road as lazy 😂

[@neiloflongbeck5705]

Speed and position are both ambiguous. Indicators are supposed not to be.

[@alangreenwood9638]

I like your videos ash but as a retired instructor I feel very uncomfortable with some of this one. I always taught that an indicator should be used to let others know your intentions. Turning left into a side road is ok but if a car appears from that road you’d have to make a last minute signal, better to just signal incase of that situation arising in my opinion

[@stevefox3763]

Police instructors teach to NOT indicate if its not beneficial.

[@nigelcox1451]

I agre with Alan, there were some uncomfortable moments, although most of the journey, not using signals was not a problem. For me the main point of this is that position and speed are more important than the indicators. I'm thinking this might have been a little dig at some videos where cammers get all upset about lack of signals, when the real issue is the manoeuvre itself. Often obvious what was going to happen, but a cammer will either fail to respond to position ans and speed and rush headlong into danger, blaming everyone else.

[@hookooekoo2]

@@stevefox3763 I've seen police driving round without belts on. Just cos it's the police, doesn't mean it's right.

[@alangreenwood9638]

@@stevefox3763 I know but that’s advanced driving instruction, as I said in my other comment I’ve taught both learner and advanced but I wouldn’t ever teach an inexperienced driver not to signal, they have enough to think about and concentrate on without the addition of should I use a signal or not. I enjoy Ashley’s videos and he gets his points across very well but in this case maybe he should of said something like “when you have gained plenty of experience”

[@stevefox3763]

@@hookooekoo2 What a dumb comparison. I was taught that automatically indicating was bad because a proper observation should be made and then and only if an indication would benefit another should one be made.

[@markgillespie8842]

I think the biggest mistake you made was thinking ppl who don't signal do it responsibly, they don't give a crap. And the responsible ones signal.

[@simonflorey5428]

Exactly, well said , the ones who don't signal don't give a fudge.

[@sheepfire1]

Yeah, the issue is the lack of any signs they’re gonna turn until the hard brake and swerve

[@zaink7037]

What annoys me is when I'm signalling to turn out onto a main road and a car from my right is coming up then turns into the road I'm waiting to pull out in without indicating. I just turn my head and look at them in disappointment. I can sometimes tell they will turn by their road speed but don't want to risk pulling out then ending up t boned.

[@David-kq1jc]

Signal most of the time , my pet hate is slowing and stopping at Roundabouts and people coming the other way don’t bother signaling

[@David-kq1jc]

@@zaink7037defo agree they are selfish twats

[@fredwest2234]

You cannot rely on other road users guessing your intentions by your speed and position. A signal removes the doubt.

[@royfontaine5526]

No it doesn’t, as they can be incorrectly applied. How’s the patio coming along btw?

[@fredwest2234]

@@royfontaine5526 Nearly finished.

[@Nooziterp1]

@@fredwest2234 I had to think about that one!

[@royfontaine5526]

@@fredwest2234 I approve of your dedication to your craft 😳

[@jpcoll2011]

As a hgv driver of over 30 years, trying to get on to a busy roundabout and cars coming off without signalling is a sore point. That one little indicator would have sure helped me decide to pull forward instead of waiting another 3 minutes for another gap in traffic whilst all the cars now behind me are thinking what I know they are thinking.

[@ItsAllJustBollox]

If I see a HGV looking for a gap on a roundabout when I am leaving an exit before I slow just a little bit as I come round and start to exit to create a larger gap for them.

[@bc9am]

I have to say as more of a pedestrian rather than a driver, it drives me round the bend how many drivers do not signal when there is no car traffic. A common scenario where I see this is the example you mentioned, right turn at a mini-roundabout (or a complex mini intersection), but I also see it on left turns as well. As a pedestrian I use people's signals to try to understand the intent of where they are going - positioning, speed etc in my experience is not reliable.

[@ethelmini]

So you're saying there's no benefit in indicating. There are lots of situations where pedestrians have priority and using your indicator doesn't show you're giving it. I'll slow; make eye contact, arm gestures; flash my headlights; rather rather than indicate.

[@kenbrown2808]

@@ethelmini wow, you put a lot of effort into not flicking a stalk to let a pedestrian see your intention in a clear and formalized manner. if I see a pedestrial looking to cross a street beyond where I intend to turn off it, I'll indicate a little bit early, so they get a clear message I'm turning off before I get to them.

[@bc9am]

I think my point was really that the way Ashley seemed to present the concept makes sense if the driver has perfect information, but if they don't it's quite arrogant. I get the concept though - I think the better way of thinking about it though is "imagine your indicators suddenly stop working - what are you going to do to safely drive your car" - this is what you should be doing even when indicating.

[@ynotnilknarf39]

@@kenbrown2808 what you've described 100% ignores hazard perception, indeed you should be thinking of how to remove the hazard YOU present to others, in this case a vulnerable person. That means slowing and ceding priority (IF ou had it which is unlikel if ou were indicating), this clears the hazard and you go on our way. At no point do you need to signal to enable safe passage of the vulnerable person nor yourself

[@kenbrown2808]

@ynotnilknarf39 yes, it does. It only addresses communicating clearly to the vulnerable person that i intend not to be a hazard to them. I didn't think it necessary to point out that i would also be checking the side road i intended to turn into to be sure there was nothing i needed to be aware of, nor that i would lift my foot from the throttle and cover the brake so my car would slow down to a speed i could safely negotiate the corner at. Because i was o ly addressing how i could commu icate to the pedestrian whose journey would benefit from knowing i intended to turn off the road before i got to him.

[@wilber3762]

Try sitting at a roundabout , in a fully loaded HGV waiting to pull out, when other vehicles are approaching with no indication of which direction they are going to take. Correct use of indicators at roundabouts can keep traffic flowing.

[@ashley_neal]

You should be using other things apart from just relying on signals if you're trying to emerge on a roundabout, especially driving a HGV.

[@deanwaller1029]

@@duncan-ellison I enjoy Ash's videos and agree with him 95% of the time. But there have been other videos where people with more experience of a certain situation try to point out something that he's not got quite right and it's never acknowledged. Or he's just said they've not understood.

[@ashley_neal]

@duncane7932 it's irrelevant what vehicle you operate. Whether you're cycling or driving a lorry, you need to do much more than just look at yellow flashing lights to emerge at a roundabout. This thread sums up my reasoning for making the video in the first place.

[@tony_w839]

@@ashley_neal do all pedstrians have the skill to look at a vehicle and be able to judge where that vehicle is going. I do use vehicle position, direction of wheels and speed to help judge, but is it right to expect all pedestrians to use this skill.

[@gareth14111984]

@@tony_w839 Considering 90% of pedestrians now are too busy staring at their phones, what difference would a small flashing orange light make?

[@nineteenninetyfive]

One thing that I have discovered from taking on pupils that have previously had lessons is that they are often told to check mirrors before signalling but they don't know what they are looking for. To answer your question about when a lack of signal is dangerous, I would say that basically the signal is another layer of safety that we use because we are all human and sometimes make mistakes. Getting a habit of always signalling is a good thing for that reason, but of course the most important part is to be aware and not rely on other people to get out of your way.

[@user-mv5zt8qd9l]

This has been a very strong theme in my part three training. Students do as they're told, but you have to nail home the reason, or they'll just performatively look and not actually consider what they're seeing.

[@jimmyccam]

Signalling as a habit becomes lazy practice. Signalling with reason shows awareness

[@raymondbenjamins5884]

That's exactly what happened with me. I was told I need to look at my mirrors (and that it would be a big part of the test), but I was never actually told why. So I got into the habit, but while I looked in my mirrors, I didn't really see anything. It wasn't until I actively tried to improve my driving (about 2 years after getting my license) that I realized why I should look.

[@mattwardman]

@@raymondbenjamins5884 Heh. People on bikes have a strong understanding of the distinction between "look" and "see". It is usually expressed in a court as "the cyclist appeared from nowhere" !

[@rexmedorum]

Spot on!

[@WhollyMowly]

Please think of this from the perspective of pedestrians. Signalling is essential to people on foot; when to choose cross etc. We regulate our speed to suit drivers all the time, and signalling helps us do that.

[@ashley_neal]

Did you not see in the video of me talking about pedestrians when I was turning into side roads? This was one of the things that I would have had to signal for if it had occurred. Another point that pedestrians need to be really mindful of is again just relying on the flashing yellow light. Take more time to read exactly what the car is doing before you step out.

[@ynotnilknarf39]

no it isn't, it creates a situation of motorists feeling entitled because they've signalled. If you force motorists to cede to peds more often THAT will reduce incidents. Signalling changes absolutely nothing rgds safety, it just can increase flow of people driving motors which is a bad thing. Same for me when I'm cycling, I won't signal, I'm looking out for peds and what they might do and change my actions accordingly so the don't have to do hardly anything

[@shm5547]

@@ynotnilknarf39 I have experienced that entitlement before. I was walking across a junction when a car turned into it, completely cutting the corner (if they had not cut the corner, then there wouldn't have been a problem!). They then shouted at me for walking in the road when they were indicating! Didn't you see my indicator! I informed the elderly lady driver that legally, as I was already crossing the road, I had priority and indicators are only to show intent, not to command other road users!

[@PatheticMr]

@@ashley_neal @Ashley Neal and if you had not spotted a pedestrian? What then? It's not difficult to see how a situation where you had not seen a pedestrian, and as you weren't indicating they crossed, turn very bad, very quickly. You can say all you like about giving other signals with things like speed and positioning, but a pedestrian is going to expect you to use your indicator if you're turning off. There is a very real discussion to be had about thinking more carefully about using the indicator. But in refusing to use it in an appropriate and expected way, you remove an important message to anyone else around you.

[@ynotnilknarf39]

@@shm5547 indeed!

[@bigfluff73]

I think it's good practice to always signal in a correct way even if you think it might not help anyone or there's nobody else visibly around. It helps pedestrians who may not be able to see road markings and gives definite clarity of the intended next move. Someone may be positioned in a way that hints at their next move, but what if they're a bad driver and just positioned wrong? Yes skilled drivers can get away with not signalling most of the time but for the average driver this is a terrible idea.

[@cjreeve79]

Yes, you can't assume people understand what you are doing from your road positioning as often people's positioning is wrong. Most common these days is for people to slow down because they are distracted by their phones. Sometimes people slow down and do a U-turn. If they indicate left then it removes doubt. Furthermore, cyclists use motorists signals to help them optimise their road positioning in advance of the motorist turning. The fact that so many people don't signal when they should I consider this video irresponsible.

[@davesherlock7515]

👏👏

[@telemachus53]

@@cjreeve79 Definitely - and I rarely differ with my respected teacher. I think Ashley is giving poor advice here.

[@cjreeve79]

@@telemachus53 an important point I made in my own comment thread is that when I cycle I use the motorist's signal to help me position myself more safely ahead of the motorist's manoeuvre. If they are turning left it is safer for me to (look signal and) move over to the right of the lane so that a vehicle waiting to pull out into the main road can see me coming. I can't do this if I don't know they will turn left, as if they turn right and I slow down in the middle of the road then I am more vulnerable as motorists behind me may then try to undertake me. Advice for motorists should not be to only indicate if you think the road users around you won't need to know. You may not have thought of everything. Better to train good behaviour that covers all cases and does not need much thinking through.

[@katierscott8771]

The point is correct way should always answer the question, 'do I NEED to indicate' and you answer that question with good observation skills. IAM advanced drivers are taught to indicate this way, because it's not something that should be habit, it's something that should be done when it's needed.

[@omghealme]

This is a really interesting concept. I have a rule that I never trust a signal and most of the time wait for the other car to commit before impacting my driving.

[@tony_w839]

what do you do if you are a pedestrian waiting at a junction. I do look at where a cars wheels are pointing, but we need to allow for all pedestrians.

[@stephencook6188]

I don't trust a signal. The only thing that I can safely assume is that the indicator works.

[@Nooziterp1]

Exactly my attitude. Though it has led to the odd beep from behind me. Make them wait a few seconds. It's better than pulling out based on another driver's signal only to have a collision.

[@Nooziterp1]

@@stephencook6188 Or that they intended to turn then changed their mind without cacelling their signal.

[@ResevoirGod]

Unless you never drive at peak times then this comment will be untrue. If you “never” trust a signal then there would be occasions that you’d never make progress

[@chrisd1982]

I think one potential flaw in what your doing is if the people around you don't know the area they may not know what your planning, whereas a simple signal tells them you are turning in a particular direction soon giving them more of an idea of what your doing

[@UKSkateboarding]

Signals are very useful to people walking. It's helps them cross safely. Just signal as its respectful.

[@pedro.arce.m]

While most of the time signals aren't strictly necessary, I can't think of a situation where signalling correctly is worse than not signalling. What I worry about the most are people I might not have noticed, for example a bike on a blind spot. I agree in that you shouldn't rely solely on signals to communicate where you're going, but knowing I can make mistakes, I don't want to be constantly analyzing if my signals are necessary enough, it's just easier and safer to build the habit of signalling.

[@gray100]

Yeah, deciding whether to signal or not just gives a driver something else to think about instead of concerntrating on driving. Much easier to signal AND learn proper road positioning. 👍

[@potatopotato5354]

As a pedestrian, I make a lot of decisions about crossing junctions based on signals. If you're not indicating to turn in, it's much harder to know for sure whether I can cross.

[@seascs]

as a pedestrian, your choice to cross or not should be based on the cars actual position to tell if it's physically safe - crossing based on a signal alone could be more dangerous, not safer

[@dacorum8053]

@@seascs The cars actual position doesn't guarantee what the driver is going to do as many drivers don't position their cars well which is why you need their signal as well! The rule is never cross a road unless you know it is safe and poisoning and signalling really does help you to make a safe decision.

[@seascs]

@@dacorum8053 you need both, or idealy as many quees as possible. not just basing your decision on signals

[@CrueLoaf]

I personally think signalling your intention with your indicator simply a good habit to get into. You also don’t know who is trying to read your choices (pedestrians about to cross the road, someone further up the road pausing to wait for you, only to find you turned left). Lazy people don’t indicate.

[@ianmason.]

Doing things _habitually_ is easy, thinking before doing them is harder. Which of the two is actually lazy?

[@mattwardman]

@@ianmason. I think thinking is part of the necessary habit, so I would not necessarily see a contradiction. As also, for example, I try to maintain a discipline of counting 5 ticks before making a physical move - just to ensure that I am giving others notice. 5 ticks may be more or fewer than necessary in each circumstance - but for me that is about trying to embed a habit of not getting lazy / negligent. That comes out of a comment from an IAM observer some (!) years ago - "many people turn the indicator on at the same they turn the steering wheel".

[@PeterBee911]

@@ianmason. "Which of the two is actually lazy?" - The type of people who got into the habit of never signaling, for sure. Not only lazy but also selfish and an accident waiting to happen.

[@pedro.arce.m]

​@@ianmason. because im lazy i always signal, i dont want to be constantly asking myself whether i need to or whether i could get away with not doing it

[@ianmason.]

@@mattwardman I'd disagree purely because I think part of _habit_ is the quintessential non-thinking nature of habits.

[@aljowen]

There should be a special place in hell for people who don't signal on roundabouts. There is nothing I hate more than being sat at a roundabout with all the cars on the road before me turning left without signalling, because if I do pull out the one person who *is* actually going straight will suddenly appear. If I don't pull out I end up sat there with tailbacks behind me and no cars in front.

[@madgamer7555]

Still thing it may be useful to signal, especially for beginner drivers, to maintain that routine and keep a good habit.

[@Evolixe]

It doesn't take any effort to signal, might as well do it. As a lorry driver it also annoys me to no end when people don't properly signal roundabouts. I'm a slow vehicle, if you don't tell me what you're doing I have no choice but to wait and see what you're doing. And the guy behind you. And the guy behind that guy, and so on and so on. There is no way I can pull into a roundabout without issues if I don't know what everyone already on it is going to do

[@lotusgroup123]

Have you never emerged onto a roundabout based on a false signal from an approaching driver on the roundabout suggesting they are exiting into the road you are emerging from, only to have them continue on the roundabout to the next exit? Some people signal too soon, by mistake or in ignorance and the point is a fine one about signals being no more of a reassurance than no signal.

[@MaggaraMarine]

@@lotusgroup123 Of course you need to be careful, because sometimes people make mistakes. But that doesn't mean a signal doesn't help. Most of the time, people are using their signals correctly, and that's really helpful when it comes to roundabouts especially. Helps with the flow of traffic. Which is more common - people not signaling which ruins the flow of traffic, or people signaling incorrectly? (I constantly see people not using their signal when leaving the roundabout, which makes it difficult to enter the roundabout. That's usually just selfish behavior. But I haven't once seen anyone use their indicator incorrectly when leaving a roundabout.) Again, of course you need to be aware of people making mistakes. That applies to every single situation. But that's not an argument against using your turn signal. I think a better question would be, why would you not signal when you are leaving a roundabout? It doesn't take much effort to use your turning signal. Sure, it is _possible_ to drive without using the signal, but if it helps other people anticipate your behavior, why would you not use it? That's the whole point of the signal - to help other people see your intentions. In some situations, there are other ways of telling people what you are going to do, but even then, using the signal doesn't hurt anyone. It just makes your intentions even clearer. But a roundabout is a good example of a situation where knowing the intention of the other drivers is quite difficult if they are not signaling. Using your signal helps the flow of traffic.

[@Evolixe]

@@lotusgroup123 Well yes, though not yet with the HGV thankfully, but that's hardly a valid reason to just not do it at all. Thats not safer, that's just dumb. If everyone signals roundabouts correctly it improves the flow of traffic massively. Thats a win win win for everyone.

[@PedroConejo1939]

It's not dangerous but not signalling left at a roundabout when there is traffic queuing at the next entrance is a pain - I face several of those daily and you have to sit until it's patently obvious that they are going left rather than straight ahead. On a quiet junction, it's just slightly inconvenient but when it's busy, everyone gets held up. And this is the issue, by removing indicators, you're removing courtesy from the road. Most signals are probably not 100% essential from a safety aspect but they do help traffic flow. I am frustated more often by a failure to signal than I ever see a misleading one. You mentioned it too but forgot it in the list at the end: when you are turning left and there are pedestrians waiting or cyclists on your inside. There are of course, idiots who will try to cycle up the inside of a vehicle that is already signalling, but I think most of us would hold back if a car was indicating left - in fact, it's a good idea not to pass someone signalling no matter what form of transport you're using. It doesn't confer right of way, but it's a fair bet that someone signalling is likely to do what they are indicating regardless of the traffic around them.

[@sammyo6217]

I sometimes try do this, but I think it works best during daytime driving, night time driving may be a different thing all together.

[@GeorgeThoughts]

Great point! Other than making your car more visible in the dark, using indicators helps other cars who can't always tell your speed at night and so on

[@CH11LER.]

Let's just concentrate on getting everyone to signal correctly rather than showing how you don't have to signal. There's already too many idiots on the road without giving more of them an excuse to do less to make others aware. I drive between 100 and 200 miles a day and people who don't signal are dangerous and piss everyone off, it's as simple as that. The other day, I was behind a person who just started to come to a stop. I thought they were stopping for an object in the road or pulling over but, they decided to pull into a driveway. Because I was close to them, I had no idea what they were doing, they caused me to become stressed without merit.

[@deebee3466]

Always look for a reason not to signal. You can control your actions on others with a brake light, but that is telling other road users what you are doing, not preparing them for what you are about to do. It's better to signal to no one, than not signal to someone.

[@Lee.Willcox]

Ashley, I had a bit of road rage this morning but only in my head, I didn't act it out in anyway. I dropped my wife (nurse) off at the Queen Alexandra Hospital Portsmouth this morning at 6am. On my way home I was being tailgated by a Police van. I really felt like doing all the bad things....... I didn't, but it beggars belief as to why at 30mph the copper didn't pull back a little given in was -5c or overtake. His/her lights were shining bright in my rear view mirror making me take my eyes off the road. I wonder if they were trying to get a good look at me? It made no sense, especially from one of those supposedly highly trained drivers. Also, I indicated at every turn, they didn't and I see this a lot from not just other road users but the police especially. No signally and bad signally only holds people up when we all want the traffic to move fluidly. I watched a driving instructor on his own not once use a signal. No wonder new drivers don't signal.

[@katierscott8771]

Just a note, the actions of the officer do sound to be a poor standard of driving. However many beat bobbies, I believe all probationers and I suspect all PCSO's are NOT advanced driver trained. My understanding is some are given enough training to allow them to use blue lights, but the circumstances are limited. For example they could use blue lights to allow them to claim the 'treat red lights as give way' exemption to allow them to make progress while driving at normal road speeds.

[@TheKalkalash]

I think the biggest risk with not signaling is that you are relying on others to have the same information of the moment as you are. Take for example you turning right at the intersection. You slow down and take a more dominant position near the center of the road. To you, that would be a clear signal that you are turning right. But is it that for everyone else? You could be turning left too, considering I see plenty of people steer to the right first before turning left. At this point the person behind you could try to overtake you, possibly causing an accident (which is something you did discuss in the video). I feel that using your turn signal never takes anything away from you, it just adds an additional way for people to read what you're doing. The only risk in using a signal really if you use it too early. I have had a near crash with both reading a car movements without it having its signal on and trusting a car's signal too much, so I guess both can carry their risks. But regardless I always signal, even if it is the middle of the night and I'm the only car on the road. My main two reasons for signaling are: - If you always signal, it becomes muscle memory and you don't have to waste effort thinking whether you should signal or not - Just because I can't see anyone who would benefit from seeing my turn signal, doesn't mean there isn't someone who would benefit from it. And I do get quite cross when people don't use their signals. It is such a small thing that helps other people read your intentions much better in addition to all the other things you are doing. I do get your point that there are plenty of ways to tell other drivers what you're doing, but in my opinion that relies on other people interpreting your positioning and movement the way you want them to.

[@pocky1scot1]

Why do you assume every indicator signal is accurate on all other drivers? Do you just pull it in front of indicating cars? Have you never seen someone forgot to cancel a signal or put on the wrong one? You can't rely on them. Your first example, if you don't signal right then the car behind should be clueless as to what your doing so should not attempt an overtake since their is no signal not just make an assumption. Now imagine they put on the wrong signal to the left, now the car behind is encouraged to overtake. While a correct signal should be useful, it can't be relied upon. Using them makes people rely on them and as such they miss the road positioning and other clues that are more telling. Indicators are not the confusion buster you think they are. You just rely on assumptions from them and that is dangerous.

[@TheKalkalash]

@@pocky1scot1 Like I said in my comment, I have been in a near accident by trusting a turn signal (in addition to other signals) too much; I was at an intersection, there was an older gentleman coming down the road. He was slowing down, had his signal on and had positioned himself at the edge of the road. I look the other way, there is a car coming so I don't pull out. And I was lucky there was the other car coming as the older gentleman kept barreling down the road past the intersection despite all signals he wasn't. My point was that as you are telling other people what you are going to do, you don't lose anything by indicating. It's an additional layer of communication that you can easily include into pretty much every maneuver without it having downsides. And I personally find that an indicator is the most reliable way of telling what someone is planning to do as 95% of people use them always and correctly, at least here in Finland as it is thought as the primary way of signalling your intentions in driving school.

[@ResevoirGod]

@@pocky1scot1 What clues are more telling out of interest? The op made a pretty clear point that what you think is a “telling clue” is not actually so. E.g someone slowing down and moving towards the centre of the road could still either be turning left or right. It’s hilarious that some people will excuse not trusting signals which are more reliable the vast majority of the time than the other supposed clues they report to trust.

[@redtela]

Good luck to anyone taking a test and not indicating! Reliance on an indicator is not advised, but not indicating is also not to be advised. TUG. Take, Use, Give. You're missing giving information by omitting the indicator. One of my pet peeves is the people that do almost exactly as you demonstrated in this video - namely brake, then indicate just before turning. I understand the argument that there's more to do than just indicate, but I don't think this is a wise way to demonstrate it.

[@hairzilla]

I was once waiting to pull out of a side road to turn left and there was a queue of slow moving (about 10pm) traffic coming from the right. After about 20 seconds of waiting one of the cars approaching my side road put on his left indicator showing to me that he wanted to turn into my side road, there was about three car lengths between him and the car in front so as the gap aligned to me i pulled out and quickly started to match the speed of the queue. The indicating car now behind me went ballistic and sped up to tail gate me and, of course, didn’t act on his signal and didn’t turn in to the side road. I learned since then never to trust a signal alone.

[@fromthegamethrone]

Whilst the position of my car tells a story, a good signal solidifies that and removes all doubt.

[@djwwautodiagnostics]

I've had to have a think about this before writing. First and foremost I indicate always (Hard to believe I'm a BMW driver) and it really annoys me when people don't signal, especially if I have sit there and wait whilst you carry on without a care in the world and I could have gone had I known your next move via a signal. You can never be sure there isn't someone to benefit. I spent a day a couple of weeks ago with a failed front right indicator bulb. I wish I had a dashcam as it got me into some really confusing / dangerous situations. All caused by the non-deliberate but none the less, lack of a signal, especially when turning right. For me, those that don't indicate, it just looks careless. Gets you thinking about the standard / competence of the rest of their driving. If I see someone not indicating, when I think they should be, would I also not indicate to potentially inconvenience that individual and make them wait a bit longer. Absolutely with no hesitation.

[@joespittle1]

The issue here is that not everyone if going to understand the hints and clues as to what you are doing. Indicators help to remove any doubt. In the interest of everyone's safety and a reduction of confusion it seems a lot better to just signal.

[@MeTube3]

After years of driving I’ve learned not to trust indicators because they are frequently erroneous and often introduce fount rather than removing it.

[@jonathonrobinson6081]

@@MeTube3 Only because those few that use it incorrectly stand out in your mind. And its highly likely you do trust indicators rather than immediately cutting across lanes to get away from someone using an indicator because you think they are an imminent threat to your safety.

[@MeTube3]

@@jonathonrobinson6081 “the few that use it incorrectly” ??? One is enough to kill you. Ever ridden a motorcycle?

[@jonathonrobinson6081]

@@MeTube3 No shit, hence why people should be taught to use them correctly rather than not at all.

[@MeTube3]

@@jonathonrobinson6081 good luck waiting for that to happen.

[@tulloch1960]

When considering whether to use a signal I ask myself: who am I speaking to?, what am I telling them? and do they need to know? The answers should establish whether the signal is required.

[@craigkearns6425]

I think too many comments are from people misunderstanding that the real message of this video is about driver awareness, planning, reading the road and how to manage both your current situation and other road users. Traffic was light throughout this video which certainly helped. Ashley’s final words say it all, if you watched to the end.

[@BambooCoffin]

Almost every example would have been clearer and safer if you indicated it. So, I agree that when there is nobody around, you can drive on quiet roads without indicating. But driving around Lewisham on a Saturday or during the school run is a different game.

[@robertevans5394]

For the sake of balance could you do a video that shows the importance of appropriate indicating focusing on safety and curtesy to other road users and pedestrians?

[@garyholder5873]

I fully agree and enjoyed seeing other visual clues of your intentions in demonstration. I will continue to signal for the extra safety net it provides and back everything up with those other visual clues. Thank you for this video.

[@jonathonrobinson6081]

It's because people are tolerating your driving, not because they appreciate it and aren't being frustrated by yet another driver that thinks they are the only one on the road.

[@protarget1]

The most important single you give to other road users is your Speed & Position. All your indicators do, including brake lights is to confirm your intentions. Emerging from a road junction you observe to your right, and see a vehicle approaching with a left indicator on. What tells you it's definitely not turning left.???

[@DavidBhoy1967]

Good points and a thought provoking video. Personally, I would always use indicators because I think it’s safer for myself and fellow road users/pedestrians.

[@Gobbbbb]

Caught yourself out there at the end 🤣

[@Drew-Dastardly]

This is great. I don't need a BMW or Audi extra lessons course now Ashley has told me how to not worry about blinker fluid.

[@johnruddick5313]

I can see that you’re a competent, aware driver, who understands the science of driving. To me it’s totally academic. What effort is needed to indicate correctly? None! What effort is needed to keep your immediate fellow drivers aware of your intentions, by always indicating? None! What effort is needed to pre-empt potential problems by always using your indicators, even if you’re driving on an empty motorway at 3am? None! If you program yourself to always use indicators, surely you’re going a hell of a long way to protect yourself from the majority of ill-mannered, substandard, incompetent drivers?

[@farmersmith7057]

He made the wrong point. He should have said “tell a story by your speed and position as well as indicate”. Instead he turned it into a false dichotomy where if “you don’t need to signal” (according to Ashley), then don’t signal.

[@ibs5080]

Of all the pieces of excellent advice I've adopted from Ashley over the years of watching his channel, this is the ONE and only thing I just can't find myself wanting to adopt. Not because I think Ashley is wrong. On the contrary and I totally get what he's getting at. Must be the Canadian half of me where over there (and in the USA where I've driven extensively) signalling for turns, lane changes etc is compulsory by law. I know that's not the case in the UK but I just can't bring myself to change my North American (and legally required) habit. It goes further than that. Look at it this way. A person's driving career could potentially span 70 years or so. In that time, there will surely be a few occasions whereby you thought you observed everything around you but in fact missed something. Another situation is that another road user could suddenly appear on the scene unexpectedly, part way to through your non signalized manouvre.

[@jefflerner7526]

Likewise in Australia signalling is mandatory even if not "needed".

[@kenbrown2808]

to me, not indicating is rude. it tells the other driver, "I like making you guess what I intend" and yes, it IS a reflexive action. like fastening my seat belt.

[@hansiesma16]

Nicely put and I agree. And personally I find signalling is a courteous act as well as often being helpful.

[@Trinity2k7]

I tend to signal even when there's no one around, since in my mind, maybe if I can't see someone/pedestrian for whatever reason, I'd like for that person to be able to know where I'm going, as it could be difficult to see car positioning during the late hours / winter months. I just think it's generally good practice to signal properly even if you think you're alone/it's not needed.

[@cheeseburgerbeefcake]

I'm a habitual indicator, mainly as a self-defence mechanism - flashing lights are good at drawing the attention of other road users who may otherwise be oblivious. I 100% agree that I use them more than strictly required, and using speed to help manage risk is a really good take away from your example today.

[@KrisDJFRAY]

Maybe I’m a bit ocd and a new driver but I always try to signal appropriately and am shocked at the amount of experienced road users that don’t. (I’m in London too)

[@SurgeDashcam]

And there's nothing wrong with that. The point Ashely is making is that if you drive appropriately, and predictably, not using a signal shouldn't really cause any dangerous situations. So yeah, use your signal, but consider more than just your signal in showing your intentions (Speed, position, etc). On the one hand, if you were to go driving with zero regard for your position and speed and only relied on your signal to show others what you are going to do, you will likely run into issues. On the other hand, if you do exactly what Ashely did in this video and show good road positioning and speed to show your intentions without a signal, you will most likely not have any real incidents.

[@PeterBee911]

@@SurgeDashcam There's everything wrong with not signaling. Because the driver that you see who are not signaling aren't thinking "Oh, I don't need to signal there". They're just lazy and NEVER signal. And do you really think those people have the skill to have the appropriate speed, position and awareness? No they don't.

[@icedbannanas]

As a motorcyclist, using signals is a way of highlighting to all the other road users my intent. I use road positioning as well, but the signal gives clarity as to my intentions. I also think it gives other road users the impression/feeling that I am driving with intent, purpose, and with knowledge. When cars use signals, it gives me time to prepare for what they are about to do, or at least have a better idea about what they are going to do. I actually don't disagree with you overall premise, I have been in several situations where people either signal but have really poor road positioning, or just use the wrong signal, and both of these scenarios are confusing and potentially dangerous. I agree that all too often people use the "but I was signalling" defence, when they really aren't aware of their surroundings, and by focusing on road position with signals being the clarty overalyed on top would be optimal.

[@pdsnpsnldlqnop3330]

On a bicycle, the well behaved cyclist does this when it makes sense to do so. Indicating comes at a cost of not having hands on handlebars but it is courtesy to communicate with more than road positioning and sometimes important to survival. If you are indicating with an arm stuck out then you really mean it, it is not just an accidentally left on switch.

[@chrisboyne5791]

My instructor told me to look for one other sign, before trusting a signal. One of the things I am learning is as you put it "read a story, tell a story". As a cyclist I was always very aware to read intentions of cars. As a driver I learned or am learning how to be very clear on what story I tell. Yes to comments about pedestrians needing turn signals, but also I need to give them more than just that.

[@adinigel]

I think the biggest plus to trying not to signal is that your observation needs to be top notch.

[@ashley_neal]

I agree. It's a lot more difficult than people think to keep safe driving in this manner.

[@Sukikev]

A great thought-provoking video. Signalling if there’s no one who might benefit is not necessary. Signalling is not just about safety, it’s also about giving information to other road users to help them make decisions and to maintain the flow of traffic. Roundabouts are a great example of where signalling can help others plan their approach. If there’s ever the possibility that another road user might benefit from a well-timed and appropriate signal then it should be given.

[@shelldrak3]

Clasic BMW drivers. The person who instals the indicators honestly has a waste of a job 😂

[@yodaslovetoy]

It's the indicator fluid supplier that I feel bad for...

[@ianmason.]

No it's not a waste. The same stalk controls high beam, flashing, and selecting what the trip computer is displaying so they'd still have to fit it anyway.

[@katierscott8771]

The advice in this video is EXACTLY how we are taught as IAM standard advanced drivers. Even as an ambulance driver we are taught to signal when it's needed to warn someone and even on blue lights the amount of signalling we do can be fairly low because we use strong road position, should be generally travelling faster than other traffic and thus generally signal as an 'ask' or 'inform we are going against road signs', for example if we claim the exemption to drive the wrong side of a keep left or right sign. We indicate when we need to inform another driver of our intent, nothing more than that. No driver to warn? No need to indicate. Even lane changes you don't need to indicate AS LONG AS you don't effect the flow of traffic. You are so right about the problems that can be caused by mistimed/poor signalling. Unfortunately I was recently knocked off my motorbike when a driver, who had been driving very slowly for no apparent reason, suddenly indicated, turned right causing me to come off as I was overtaking them at the time. It was clearly a classic example of signal/manover with absolutely no 'mirror/observation/shoulder check' . The driver drove off despite my bike making contact and they didn't report the collision to the Police, I did obviously. I am willing to bet their 'defence' will be 'well I did indicate'.. probably followed by either 'they shouldn't have overtaken' or 'I didn't see them' - NOTE the overtake would have been completed in a timely fashion with me NOT exceeding the speedlimit... and I was wearing a huge orange high vis jacket so was definitely visible. Before I get comments, I could have waited till after the junction, however the vehicle position was such that it's 'body language' gave me no clue, the manoveur was started comfortably before the junction and the driver effectively cut the corner by starting the turn very early. One thing I also found out, which is off topic of the video, but interesting information. Failing to stop at the scene of an accident is an offence penalised more harshly than careless driving. The latter you can be sent on a driver improvement course, the minimum for failing to stop is 5 points and you can get a ban. The ban is obviously available because the police would have been unable to take a breath or drug sample and thus, in effect, the actions were 'refusing to provide a specimen'

[@Blest1983]

the point of signal is not only to make people aware of what your planning to do, but also to allow them to decide what to do. One of the biggest issue's with roundabouts is people's lack of signals or incorrect signals which in return can cause more issues if they read it wrong

[@MartinParnham]

Two things with indicators I’ve noticed: I quite often see what I call “impatient indicators” where a car behind that’s been giving clues that it’s a MGIF has banged an indicator on well before a turn that I’m also taking, and before I put mine on. The second thing is that I see drivers fail to indicate to get into a turn lane but then put a signal on when they’re in that lane. Seems strange to me as by the time they’ve chosen their lane it’s pretty obvious where they want to go. Also, the signal-as-they-move I refer to a “token indicator”

[@tony_w839]

that would be a flat cap driver, as they turn the steering wheel they move the indicator lever, this was in days of yore.

[@ethelmini]

Worse, those who indicate as they steer. No problem with indicating once in lane if it's for oncoming traffic, or going straight on is an option. Could even be preferable as it's less likely they just haven't failed to cancel a lane change signal.

[@ethanleighton9060]

Indicators are a tricky one in my opinion. I would definitely always use them when coming up to a junction (especially a closed junction) for the sake of pedestrians or anyone that you cannot see from where you are just to help a little bit. On the first right you did with 2 lanes I don't think a signal should be required (because I know you need one in the driving test) as when people do it's tricky to see if they want to change lanes or if they're just turning right. I would stand by the phrase "no signal is better than a misleading one" as just this week someone indicated left on a roundabout and my bus driver pulled onto the roundabout and they went right (not sure how you mismatch your left and rights) but an accident in that scenario could have caused many injuries

[@pj1758]

If someone is breaking without indicating, then that sends me a message that there may be an obstruction ahead that I have to get ready for. Plus as others have said, it irritates other road users if it seems as though you’re driving slowly when they can’t tell that you’re about to turn. So no I don’t agree with not indicating. The only situation where I wonder am I indicating unnecessarily is: If I com across a roundabout with a left-turn-only lane marking but the lane isn’t sharply pointing to the left. I still indicate so that drivers at the next entrance know where I’m about to go - they might not know the lane markings.

[@mikemiller8176]

I would say the majority of drivers do not drive with the same amount of care and concentration. If one of those drivers was involved in a collision with your vehicle, however careful or well positioned you were, you would lose any challenge as to whose fault it was simply because you were not signalling. The insurance company would not pay out either just for that very fact, regardless of right of way or intention.

[@zaixai9441]

I think a good take away from this is drive as if you weren't signalling.

[@ashley_neal]

Perfect, you’re one of the few who have got this message 👏

[@MartinParnham]

Roundabouts is an interesting one. I definitely always signal if I’m going all the way around the roundabout, i.e. using it to turn around. I did this the other day after I’d got into the incorrect lane for where I wanted to go and had to go back on myself. I had a signal on the whole time and a car wanting to emerge did pull out a bit earlier than o would’ve liked. It wasn’t an issue but I think people assume where you’re going, and that’s the problem.

[@anthonylewis679]

I taught myself years ago (36 yrs driving), that it is just safer for everyone to just signal each time you make a maneuver, to this day, i even indicate if i`m driving at 2/3 in the morning, it only takes 1 forgotten indicater for someone to hit your arse, or a pedestrian to step out thinking your going straight on, just indicate, its safer for everyone.

[@ronnewsam6129]

Why do so many people think Ashley is saying you don't need to indicate. He is saying think about where and when it is needed i.e. make a conscious decision in each circumstance to convey your intentions to other road users.

[@ashley_neal]

I must admit the response from the video has been a surprise. 👍

[@mat_tamarin]

I think this is one of those where the message has been lost in the method. The point is valid but, maybe a different approach would have been less conflicting. Indicators are one of the many weapons in a drivers arsenal to combat road confusion, maybe explore in more detail the others in a seperate video?

[@GovernmentName95]

Hmm, not sure whether some of them would be useful or helpful but would argue it’s still best practice and forming good habits. Also surely on roundabouts to improve the flow of traffic, indicating off it would be good.

[@ronrolfsen3977]

Personally I always use a signal if the signal does show my intention clearly. So in a double left lane I would not signal left if I am in the right lane. As it would not be clear whatever I signal for me going into that left lane of just signaling that I want to turn left. Beside that I always signal even when I am alone on the road with no-one around me. Simple because I prefer to make it a habit to use the signals. Also because I might be mistaken and I was not alone on the road.

[@dougreid1951]

One situation where I have found an emphatic indication to be vital is when taking a very little used exit from a busy roundabout. As an example there is a roundabout where Hook Road crosses the A3 near Chessington there is busy traffic using both the Hook Road and the A3 and everybody is looking for small gaps - but there are additional very lightly used exits to a small parade of shops - taking that exit without a signalis an invitation to being rammed by someone in a hurry. As a motorcyclist (and HGV driver) this is one place I'd always advise the use of indicator - and backed up with a hand signal.

[@GeorgeThoughts]

Ashley I would suggest using signals when pulling in for emergency vehicles to pass as one scenario! Because blue light drivers are looking for positive signs that you're aware of their presence. Now yes this can be brake lights and road position but considering they're often moving at speed, a signal would be the quickest way to show you are aware of them! Great video though and a bit like the one on "cutting corners" I'd consider it a more "advanced" idea to actively choose and be aware of signalling vs not-signalling. The majority of the driving population should continue to always signal as habit because it is a very clear way to show your intent.

[@darrenkellett]

I was a little worried about you not using signals when in situations where other vehicles are around you. I think you managed the situation absolutely fine but I’m worried about us Tesla drivers getting tarred with the same brush as BMW drivers. 😂😂 Good interesting video.

[@bp19870]

It doesn’t take not signalling to be tarnished by the same brush as BMW’s. It’s pulling out infront of drivers knowing you have the power to pull away quick, tailgating, middle lane hogging - the list goes on! The fact you’re on a driving education channel though means you don’t sit at the same table as the rest of them, so we will all let you off 👌👍😂

[@gravemind6536]

Its too late, I really like Tesla but sadly they are mostly being bought by utter knobs who think they're superior this is especially true since the cheaper model 3 was released which made Tesla accesible to the plebs who want to look wealthy but aren't.

[@gravemind6536]

@@bp19870 I had an Audi EV of some description pull out in front of me or so I thought I was about to brake and sound my horn but they accelerated so quickly I didn't even have to slow at all I was shocked it might as well have teleported away from its driveway.

[@bofor3948]

Anything to save the battery😅

[@johnduheaume6650]

@@bp19870 And there's me who never knew that indicators were original equipment on a BMW

[@Dazmeister22]

As an hgv driver I always need other motorists to signal on all roundabouts. The reason is that if my trailer is heavily laden (up to a max gross of 44 tonnes) my truck can be pretty slow to get moving from a standstill. Added to this is the fact that it's around 16 metres long. If a vehicle is on a larger, free flowing type of roundabout it can be almost impossible for me to predict, in good time, which exit, if any, they are taking. If I then pull out onto the roundabout it could become dangerous. The obvious answer is, don't pull out until you're sure there's time but, on certain roundabouts there can be trees etc...which obscure my view, coupled with faster moving traffic on the roundabout doesn't give enough time for a long, slow vehicle to get going. If I were just to sit & wait then both myself and the queue behind me could be there for a long time. Thanks for the videos Ashley, even as a very experienced driver I'm finding them valuable.

[@nickgould4521]

It's better to indicate, and not need it, than not indicate at all. I always indicate even if I'm the only person on the road for miles.

[@paulhemingway5341]

I take your point - but signalling is a failsafe. If you don't do it automatically without a conscious decision, the day will come when you don't do it in a critical situation. Also other road users can appear, make a decision where you're going and by the time you've reacted its too late.

[@johnhodkinson2063]

If you had an examiner in the car during that drive what do you think their opinion of not signalling would be?

[@ashley_neal]

There is no way in the world that you would pass a driving test like that, but don't you think that also adds to the problem? "To pass the test, we will put more emphasis on signalling as opposed to observing" It's quite interesting that for the last 25 years, the number one reason that people fail their test is observation.

[@redtela]

My instructor put far more emphasis on observation than on indicating. So maybe it's down to the instructors, rather than the examiners? Teach students when to (and when not to) indicate, and the examiner will likely be happy, no?

[@n1ch0las51]

Thanks Ashley I used to be a motorcycle instructor. I used to take my pupils, who were all novice riders to a local roundabout. we would park a nice distance away and walk to the roundabout whereapon we would stand in a position so as not to cause an obstruction, I would pick out an oncoming vehicle and ask them, in turn to say where they thought it would be going simply by their speed and position on the road, they would answer by saying first second or third exit etc. 95% of the time they got it right, often way before the vehicle showed any indication. My aim was for them to be able to read the situation and be able to react accordingly. Afterwards I would ask them "what does it mean if you see a vehicle indicating"? Answer "the indicator on that vehicle works". This video shows the most road users do read the situation often subcontiosly. As a motorcyclist its imperative to read and understand the other vehicles and not blindly accept that just because the vehicle is indicating that it will actually take that turn. I have followed vehicles with their indicators flashing way after they have taken a turn and in one occation at the next junction somebody pulled out in front of the indicating vehicle and they collided. I could do nothing and simply looked on from behind helpless to stop it happening. This was in the days before dashcam etc.

[@colfdralegend]

“More information is better” - my driving instructor You are right though, people seem to focus more on signals than the car itself

[@adrianchatto1]

You make some good points. I watch all your videos and they regularly make me think about my driving. Thanks and keep up the good work Ashley.

[@disableddigger]

I understand what you're saying but you're assuming that people are or can read what you're doing with your positioning, there's one hell of a lot of drivers that cannot understand what you're doing even if you draw them a picture.

[@frajaralon]

100% - ironically there was also a learner behind, it's not like they've not got enough to think about with actually operating and moving the 2 ton of machinery...

[@dennisphoenix1]

If you are on a dual carriageway with a 50 or 60 limit and intend to exit into a side road etc an early signal before you start braking shows the indicators clearly . Once you start braking the brake lights are bright and can hide the indicators. Indicating early gives the drivers following you two options, to slow with you or overtake you . Not indicating and just slowing may cause the car behind to not slow down as early because they can't see a reason for you decelerating .

[@rowgli]

Roundabouts are a nightmare now. You can't win. People don't indicate much, so, if I follow the LHS lane to go straight on instead of cutting off the roundabout, people assume I'm just turning left and emerge in front of me. I've had so many near misses like this.

[@bramelsheretan]

I like this video, another situation you might want to do is driving to the rev counter. Knowing the revs in gear/speed is a great option if your speedometer was to fail. To answer your question, no I don't always use indicators, it always depends on the situation.

[@out-backer7875]

Good in principle, but doesn't work so well with EVs as they don't have rev-counters. Likewise some smaller entry-level vehicles

[@daniel_a_travels]

You make some really good points in this video as always, but one thing that keeps crossing my mind is what if this was on a driving test? Something tells me you would fail your test, and I doubt the examiners would listen to you trying to tell them that people can tell what you're doing by your road positioning etc.

[@Mrtwistedblack]

I think on this occasion you are so wrong, a signal can always be a benefit and useful. What if you haven’t spotted a pedestrian, cyclist or vehicle and they are expecting a signal as the indicator for their required decision. Yet because what you think is obvious to you may very well NOT be for others.

[@simonflorey5428]

I think your message is dubious and encouraging people not to signal in general, if in doubt surely better to signal than not signal .

[@marcuscross8051]

Very helpful, Ashley, thank you. Nicely demonstrated and clearly explained. You highlight the importance of speed and position. Also, it makes me think that many people just put their indicator on without much thought, and then just assume they can turn without adjusting their speed or doing proper checks.

[@1024sofia]

once again ppl have chosen to ignore the concept and purpose of this video. He never said "don't use your indicators!", this is just another way of him showing how other forms of body language can act as signals and not to rely on other people's signals , but THEIR body language too.

[@ChrisBrown-px1oy]

Thanks Ashley for this provocation. I haven't concluded that I should now make a huge effort to reduce my use of flashing light signals to the barest minimum. Rather that to be always aware of why and for whom I am using the signal and whether it aligns with the other signals I am putting out, is as healthy a discipline as reading those same other signals from other road users. That's all.

[@SimonJM]

I understand the idea, and agree so far as the 'bad signalling' is worse than 'no signalling'. However 'no signalling' is also worse than 'proper signalling'. I work on the basis that if I indicate at all times I will gain, and perpetuate. the habit of signalling. I don't have to think of 'do I need to signal or not', I just do. If eveyone drove correctly, with speed, road position, etc., then signalling, or not, becomes less of an issue, but you could make the same point about ANY aspect of driving - why not just try and do it ALL at a decent level?

[@ethelmini]

If you don't automatically signal you'll "gain & perpetuate" the awareness & skills demonstrated in this video. The only justification for signalling, when you haven't identified a specific need to communicate your intention is if you failed to assess it - but that also puts you at risk of doing that bad signalling.

[@yodaslovetoy]

In the bmw? Damn. You said it within the first minute 😆 🤣

[@SuperFuzzyl]

So this video made a lot of sense to me. When I learnt to drive some 20+ years ago, my instructor taught me to use whole picture to decide on what other vehicles are doing. I would say that over the years this has probably saved me from a number of accidents. It's about creating a number of signals that all describe what you are doing and the indicator is just one part. That having been said I do think some people need to use them more, especially in busy urban areas with many vehicles and pedestrians in one place. Don't rely on them but don't forget you have indicators.

[@wrightwoodwork]

I more often than not don't signal. The other week when cycling home with lights on and and a national speed limit road. When I wanted to turn right there was a car approaching from behind fairly fast as I don't want them pass me to reduce risk. After doing my shoulder checks postioned myself right on the center line or just over to give a strong signal that I'm turning right. Postioned myself in plenty of time to give the driver time to slow. Made the right turn with no issues for me or the driver. The key thing is positioning not the signal . The thing that always amuses when cycling and car passes they indicate left to pull in. Honestly it's no benefit to me. I already know they are going to pull back across. What is more useful is a right signal to let drivers behind know that there is a hazard and to move over to the right to pass the hazard

[@ernestmfakudze]

Very interesting indeed Ashley! Up until now the thing that drives me mad the most when driving is people who don't signal. Funny thing is that 99% of the time I always know what they are about to do even when they do a manoeuvre without signalling. For example, when changing lanes a lot of people first move very closer to the lane divider before actually signalling - so they do Mirror Manoeuvre Signal instead of Mirror Signal Maneuver. It bugs me but it has never left me feeling unsafe since I'm always paying attention to them and anticipate what they are about to do. One night I clipped a car on the motorway because the car changed lanes onto the lane I was on. Luckily, there was no major accident. I could have avoided the accident because the guy was actually accelerating and signalling to come to my lane but instead of slowing down I stubbornly accelerated because I was on MY LANE! I don't think like that anymore because no one owns anything on the roads. I also agree that misleading signals are worse than no signals at all. I learnt this the hard way a few months back while driving in London. I was at a T junction waiting to turn left. On my right, a Land Rover Discovery was approaching with its left signal on. I assumed that the lady driver was going to turn left onto the road I was on and I started to move, only for her to not turn left and continue on. She just wanted to park just after passing the road I was on. Luckily, we were both going slowly but I had to slam my breaks to stop hitting her. I passed my test over 20 years ago in London and I still apply what I was taught by my AA instructor daily when I'm driving. I'm the guy you would see signalling to change lanes in the middle of an empty motorway at 2 am🤣. However, you have just shown us that it's not the end of the world when people don't signal. Had I known that earlier it would have saved me from many high blood pressure moments when I'm driving. From now on I won't care much if people don't signal. A much happier driving life😁

[@robloxfan4271]

I still would use signals

[@captain1664]

Ashley was not saying that we shouldn't use signals. The point he was making is that it should not be our only way of communicating to others what our intentions are. Speed and position, along with good awareness are just as important. It also made me smile how Ashley automatically used his indicator as he got close to home.... An automatic reaction.

[@jonathanfaull1880]

Actually I am impressed with the comments. Usually comments make me sad at the state of humanity. About signaling, just do it, it isn't as if it will reduce your electricity bill, at the right time of course. If not for the road users you see then for the ones you haven't. The signal might just be enough to wake up another road user in time to save you from having an accident, or reducing their contact speed. Finally my driving instructors oft quoted pearl of wisdom, Always be careful of vehicles that are not signaling and never trust the ones that do.

[@alcambon9942]

Not signaling is a signal in itself that you are not turning so cars can catch up and close the gap, if you then suddenly turn the car behind is going to have to break hard and the cars behind that are going to slow down for no reason and causes a chain effect when the car behind could have just taken over and kept the same speed instead of slowing down every time someone turns left, it's highly stressful for the car behind to have to slowdown for no apparent reason and the realise you are doing a left turn and has to waste fuel to get back up to speed again and got forbid you turn into a road where you have to wait to let them pass then you have to stop with your arse sticking out of the road and cause an accident a few cars behind you.

[@cillaa2496]

It also about courtesy to others, so it might not be dangerous but it respectful to other?

[@stefanoosterhout]

I've given my signals a lot more thought lately, since I recently discovered your channel. Now I do think about who I'm signalling for. My question would be: why not put your signal on for the cyclist that I missed (I'm human after all). (or maybe to simply prevent people from being pissed off for me not signaling, and avoiding road rage)

[@howitsdone5581]

A lot of the time I use a signal as a second opinion on what other road users are doing after watching their speed and positioning.

[@heavyecho1]

This works if everyone is at your standard Ashley. But to paraphrase George Carlin: 'Think how poor the average driver is, then realise 50% of them are worse'. So people need to give the idoits as much information as possible. For example where you are turning right. If a boy/girl racer were to come around the corner at speed and you are not indicating, then they will overtake and cause you to slam on. If you are indicating they will charge up behind you and pass on the left. It's not your problem, but it make flow worse.