Turning for Safety

by EVANDER KLUM

Switching from lane to lane without using turn signals is one of the main causes of traffic accidents. Because of this, the law requires every vehicle to use signaling devices such as turn signals. As an important part of the vehicle lighting system, turn signals, as the name suggests, provide signal to the other drivers that the vehicle is making a change in direction and perhaps, speed of travel. With the help of a good pair of Volvo turn signals, for example, one can make safer lane changes, signal his intention to move to the adjacent lane, and give approaching drivers advance warning for sufficient reaction time. Switching on the Volvo turn signal light well before turning around a corner warns other drivers for the need to slow down, and back off to a safe distance. Turn signals are also known as blinkers, flashers, directional lights, or indicators. Front and side turn signals are visibly illuminated and situated near the left and right front and rear corners, and at times, on the sides of vehicles.

Nowadays, some cars have supplemental turn signals installed on the side mirrors, specifically behind the mirror glass. These mirrors contain high-intensity light-emitting diodes arranged to form an arrow to either left or right. Traffic laws require that any turn signal system should project a flashing white or amber light visible to the front and a flashing red or amber light visible to the rear. Studies proved that amber rear signals are more discernible as turn signals and that amber-colored turn signals increased improvements in the speed and accuracy of drivers.

Since Volvo turn signals are located outside the vehicle, they become very prone to damage especially during collisions. A defective or broken turn signal therefore has to be repaired or replaced immediately. Other car owners use metal garnish to protect the entire lighting assembly. Whatever the means are, keeping a working set of turn signals is of great importance to road safety.