That means that we should give accurate information verbally and physically, i.e. body language.

The same applies when driving, but even more so on account of the speeds involved and the density of traffic.

We would all like time and space when travelling on the road, likewise we should give other road users time to understand our intentions.

The Transport Research Laboratory carried out research into the effectiveness of vehicle indicators and one of the findings was that before the average driver realised the indicator was working, it flashed at least four times.

This means that there are some drivers who take up to ten or more flashes before they are aware of your intentions.

A road user is anybody who uses the road, including pedestrians, even ones on the pavement.

Signals have to be planned and given in good time; time enough for the other road users to see, make their own plan and react.

Best practice is not to signal automatically. Without consideration of others, there is a danger that a crash may occur due to the confusion caused by the signal.

Use all your mirrors first, all round observation will inform you who to signal to.

If there are other road users close by (including pedestrians and you are turning left) signal early or if you are waiting for traffic to pass before moving away from the kerb, do not indicate at all.

They might think you are moving out in front of them and brake and get rear-ended by following traffic.

Do you need advice about driving matters or do you have a burning question to ask?

Write to Driving Forward, Diss Express, Norfolk & Suffolk House, Mere Street, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4AE or email editorial@dissexpress.co.uk

Terry Plummer runs Drive Train – Driver Development Training He can be contacted by calling 01379 740729