A study recently published by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) indicates that failing to use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns is a deadly problem on America’s roads. On average, the failure to properly use turn signals causes approximately two million accidents each year. By comparison, distracted driving – which is also considered to be a major cause of car accidents – is estimated to cause roughly 950,000 accidents each year.
SAE reports that drivers do not use their turn signals when actually making a turn about 25 percent of the time. Drivers either do not use their turn signals when changing lanes or do not turn their turn signal off 48 percent of the time.
Smart Turn Signal System
SAE suggests that automakers begin installing “smart turn signals” to help remedy this problem. The system would provide a reminder to people who do not use their turn signals, similar to the reminder to put seatbelts on.
The system would also help with those who forget to turn their signals off. Turn signals would automatically be turned off either after the vehicle senses that the car has completed the lane change or after a certain amount of time passes.
Recovery for Crash Victims
If you or someone you love has suffered injury in a car accident due to the negligence of another driver, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. For more information, contact a personal injury attorney today.
Source: MSNBC, “Turn signal neglect a real danger, study shows” Paul Eisenstein.