Indicator Code

[iluvcatz]

I have noticed that lorry drivers often use their indicators to convey thanks etc, to other drivers for letting them pass etc. Recently car drivers have taken to using it, someone did it to me when I let them change into my lane. Does anyone know the code?

[sholay]

I've been doing this for years! No code - just flash your hazards once or twice to say thanks. Easier to see than taking your hands off the wheel to wave thankyou.

[Toureman]

The proper Lorry drivers code is not used now as all vehicle drivers including lorry drivers make it up as they go along!

So do not trust any signals from other road users who are telling you what to do! you are responsible for driving your car.

Having got my little rant out of the way..........

The main signals that used to be used was if you saw a lorry coming towards you with FULL headlights on it meant I am not stopping get out of the way, If it was a couple of flashes from the headlights it meant I will wait for you, now either can mean either! A thankyou from a lorry during the day was a short flash and then a long flash from the headlights, at night they would do the same by switching the lights off! There were a few more but that gives you some idea.

Indicaters are used today for all sorts of signals but you should make sure the other vehicle is going to what he is telling you he might be doing.

[iluvcatz]

I know the headlight thing, this is definitely indicators only, the person today was pulling in front of me with my permission, she was not cutting in, then I think she did quick indication one way then the other, this was not indication that she was turning as she was travelling straight on.

[sddsddean]

As a truck driver I can tell you that the flicking of indicators has basically taken over from switching side lights on and off (although some drivers still do it) as it is easier to flick the stalk than turn the knob! There is no particular code, its just to say thanks for flashing me in (assuming you have flashed your headlights to tell the truck it is now safe to pull in).

[Grunty]

Well said Toureman. Above all, never rely on someone else's signal to take any action, but make sure yourself that it is safe. Also beware of a driver who needs a headlight signal to tell him where the end of his trailer is.

[sddsddean]

So obviously grunty you have never driven something 15m long weighing 44 tonnes in the pouring rain with nutters in cars with no lights on who think they can be seen! It is just a courtesy so that you don't block the overtaking lane any longer than you need to, but obviously you have never heard of courtesy on the roads.

[ianess]

sddsddean.......I agree totally but please keep an eye on your blood pressure. Speaking as an ex professional driver if you're over the age of 45 your health is at risk because of constant stress. You possibly won't be aware of it but it can certainly bu**er up your life.

I tend to think that a quick flash of the hazard lights is an act of courtesy and should be welcomed....there's little enough "roadcraft" in use today.

[sddsddean]

Can't really understand that Zacs. As you normally acknowledge a flash to be let in, the truck would be pulling in, out of your lane. Or do you mean you think he might pull straight out again? I don't profess to being a perfect driver, but just do my best. I normally abide by the advice given to me by my Dad years ago...assume everyone else on the road is an idiot! Although most aren't, you'll be ready for the ones who are!

[sddsddean]

Well I always make the last signal the way I'm going, so if I'm pulling in I always make the left signal the last.

[sddsddean]

I understand what you are saying, but usually its a quick flick of the lights, but I do see what you mean.