Which Light to Turn on When Starting the Car?
4 Answers
When starting the car, you should turn on the left turn signal. This is because cars are generally parked on the right side of the road, and when restarting, it is necessary to alert the vehicles behind that the car ahead is about to change lanes to the left, ensuring driving safety. Below is relevant information about car lights: 1. Light Usage: When learning to drive, it is essential to master the proper use of car lights. These lights play a crucial role in daily driving, and correct usage can enhance driving safety. 2. Turn Signals: Cars have turn signals at both the front and rear. Some vehicles also have turn signals on the sides, rear window glass, or rearview mirrors. Before turning, the turn signal should be activated in advance. The switch is located on the lever behind the left side of the steering wheel. Pushing the lever downward with the left hand activates the left turn signal, while pushing it upward activates the right turn signal.
When I start driving, the first thing I do is check the lighting conditions. If it's dusk or in an underground garage, I always turn on the low beams to see the road clearly and make sure others notice my car. More importantly, I use the turn signals—left turn signal when starting to the left—to inform surrounding vehicles and pedestrians that I'm about to move. This habit was repeatedly emphasized by my driving instructor, and it’s especially important for safety. For example, last time when I started driving in the rain, I had both my lights and turn signals on. An electric scooter suddenly darted toward me, but because I had signaled, the rider managed to brake in time. Additionally, before starting, I always glance at the dashboard indicators. If the low beam symbol isn’t lit or is flickering, it might mean the bulb is about to fail, so replacing it promptly is crucial.
Using turn signals when starting is crucial to avoid accidents, more important than any other lights. For example, when pulling out from a roadside parking spot, signaling alerts approaching vehicles from behind - failing to do so risks sudden movement causing rear-end collisions. Of course, headlights should also be used in low-light conditions, but turn signals take priority. As a driver with ten years' experience, I particularly worry about novice drivers skipping this step - last week in my neighborhood, I witnessed an electric scooter get sideswiped precisely because it started moving without signaling. The lighting system requires maintenance too; regularly check wiring and lens covers, especially on older vehicles where oxidized connectors can dim lights, creating greater hazards during heavy rain.
The first step when starting to drive is to turn on the turn signal to indicate direction. When lighting is insufficient, use low beams, but never blind others with high beams. Traffic regulations require the use of turn signals when starting; failure to do so is considered a violation. When I worked as a driving instructor at a driving school, I always reminded students to develop this reflex. Also, pay attention to the condition of your lights—replace any bulbs that are out promptly. Nowadays, LED lights have a long lifespan and are not expensive. In special scenarios like starting in foggy weather, remember to turn on the rear fog lights to increase visibility.
