The driver must be consistent in procedures. If the driver performs them daily, it will become a habit.

Forgetting to communicate the driver's intentions can lead to accidents, which can occur at any time. It may happen the one time a driver fails to communicate. Hence, the driver must take the initiative to do it consistently.

Consistently communicating driving intentions is an essential part of safe driving. It involves making sure that other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists know what you plan to do so that they can adjust their behaviour accordingly. There are several ways to communicate your driving intentions consistently:

Use turn signals

Turn signals are crucial to communicate your intentions to other drivers. Use them whenever you change lanes, turn a corner, or merge into traffic. This will help other drivers anticipate your movements and reduce the risk of accidents.

Eye contact

Make eye contact with other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists before proceeding, especially when turning or crossing an intersection. This lets them know that you have seen them and understand their presence.

Use hand signals

In case of turn signals failure or when you need to signal someone on foot, you can use hand signals to communicate your intentions.

The most common hand signals are the same as the ones used for bicyclists:

• A left turn signal is indicated by extending your left arm straight out
• A right turn is indicated by extending your left arm and bending it upwards at a 90-degree angle and
• A stop signal is indicated by extending your left arm downwards at a 90-degree angle

Head checks

Always check your blind spots before merging or changing lanes. This is especially important when driving in areas with heavy traffic or changing highway lanes.

Use hazard lights

Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle has an issue in an emergency. This will help prevent accidents and allow other drivers to give you enough space.

Observe traffic signs

Always follow traffic signs and signals, as they provide essential information about the road and traffic conditions. This includes stop signs, yield signs, and speed limit signs.

By consistently communicating your driving intentions, you can help ensure your safety and that of others on the road. It's important to remember that even if you are a safe and responsible driver, not all drivers are. It's crucial always to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Failing to communicate your driving intentions consistently can lead to various types of accidents, including:

Rear-End Collisions: If you fail to use your turn signals when slowing down or stopping, the driver behind you may not anticipate your actions, leading to a rear-end collision.

Side-Swipe Accidents: Not using your turn signals or checking blind spots when changing lanes can result in side-swipe accidents, where your vehicle collides with another vehicle in the adjacent lane.

Intersection Crashes: Failing to signal a turn at an intersection can confuse other drivers, leading to T-bone or head-on collisions as they may not yield or may proceed under false assumptions.

Pedestrian Accidents: If you don't make an eye contact.