Which light to use when turning at a signalized intersection?
2 Answers
When turning at a signalized intersection, turn on the left or right turn signal as appropriate. Here is some knowledge about turn signals: 1. Introduction: The turn signal is an important indicator light that is turned on when a motor vehicle is turning to alert vehicles and pedestrians in front, behind, and to the sides. The turn signal tube uses a xenon tube, controlled by a single-chip microcomputer circuit, with left and right alternating flashing for continuous operation. The turn signal uses a flasher to achieve light flashing. It can be mainly divided into three types: resistance wire type, capacitor type, and electronic type. 2. Structural principle: The resistance wire type can be further divided into hot wire type (electrothermal type) and vane type (bounce type), while the electronic type can be divided into hybrid type (with contact-type relays and electronic components) and fully electronic type (without relays). For example, the bounce-type flasher uses the principle of current thermal effect, with thermal expansion and contraction as the driving force, causing the spring plate to make sudden movements to connect and disconnect the contacts, thereby achieving light flashing.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I always activate my turn signal well in advance when making turns at traffic light intersections—typically 50 to 100 meters beforehand. This isn’t an optional nicety but a fundamental safety requirement, allowing trailing vehicles and pedestrians to anticipate my direction and avoid rear-end collisions or side impacts. For instance, when the light turns green, failing to signal can easily result in getting blocked by vehicles overtaking from the side. I make it a habit to double-check the rearview mirror, ensuring no cars are approaching before turning. Remember, during nighttime or rainy conditions, keeping the turn signal illuminated—paired with headlights—is crucial for visibility. Since adopting this practice, I’ve noticed a significant drop in near-misses and smoother urban driving overall.
