The Bermuda Road Safety Council takes this opportunity to announce our slogan for the month of September - Signal Early (using indicators). As we transition into the month of September, we must continue to prioritize road safety for ourselves and others. One critical aspect of safe driving that often goes overlooked is the proper use of indicators, also known as turn signals. Indicators are a simple yet highly effective tool for communication on the road, and their correct use can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall road safety.

Too often, while traveling on our roads, we see instances of vehicles turning without giving warning to other drivers. Indicators are there to warn other drivers that this vehicle is turning either left or right. When a driver uses their indicator they must still check their mirrors, side and rear view, to ensure that they are clear to turn. The driver must use the turn signal to ensure that a driver that is behind or coming towards them is aware of what they’re intending to do.

Under the TCD Traffic Code Handbook - Traffic Signs and Signals sec. 51. Before you stop, slow down or change direction, give the appropriate signal clearly and in good time. If you use a direction indicator, see that it is turned to neutral as soon as your movement is completed. It also states: the purpose of signals is to inform other road users of your presence or what you intend to do. Signals are informative in that they may give notice of an intention to carry out a maneuver. They give a warning, not an instruction and give no right whatsoever to carry out the intended action unless it is safe.  

Drivers must also give sufficient amount of time from putting on their indicator to when they turn, to ensure that vehicles behind can react in sufficient time. It is advised that indicators are turned on 3-5 seconds before the driver has to turn. Having an indicator on for too long can be a hazard.

As important as turning on the indicator is turning off the indicator after you have turned. Driving with an indicator on and having no intention of turning is a hazard and can be dangerous. This can mislead other drivers that are behind or on-coming and can cause a collision.  

The month of September is also Life Insurance awareness month, and in partnership with CG Insurance, the BRSC promotes the importance of life insurance and planning ahead for the unexpected that can happen. Life insurance and road safety are important aspects of planning for the future and protecting yourself and your loved ones.

A good driver is a responsible driver who uses their indicators correctly and in the proper manner. The BRSC encourages all drivers to take the time to practice the small driving behaviors that make a big impact on our roads. Remember to turn your indicator on with sufficient time for surrounding traffic to react and to also turn the indicators off after the turn has been completed.

We remind the public to drive with care and caution, don’t drink and drive, and to slow down Bermuda.

Cautious Drivers = Safer Roads = Safer Bermuda