Can I be fined for not using my car indicators?

INDICATORS are essential to let other drivers know of any movements that may obstruct their pathway.

Here's what you need to know about indicator fines.

Can I be fined for not using my indicators?

All drivers will be aware of the phrase - mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Not using indicators is classed as careless and inconsiderate driving and may also be seen as driving without due care and attention.

Without proper signalling to other drivers when switching lanes or using a roundabout, drivers could be responsible for causing an accident.

This offence could land drivers with a huge fine of up to £5,000 and up to nine points on their driving licence.

In some serious cases, they could even be disqualified from driving.

When should I use my indicators?

If it will make anyone – even a cyclist or pedestrian – aware of your intentions, you should use your indicators.

If there’s nobody there to see, then it’s not necessary to signal, but doing so won’t cause you to fail a driving test.

You must always use your signals when overtaking another moving vehicle, regardless of the type of road you’re travelling on.

If you’re turning left or right at a roundabout, you must signal the appropriate direction but you should not indicate if you plan to go straight.

If turning right or straight, you must apply your left turn signal just after the exit before the one you intend to take.

The rules for mini roundabouts are pretty much the same, except you don’t have to indicate to exit.

Dual carriageways and motorways both use markers that look like little slashes, leading up to an exit.

Three slashes shows that you’re 300 yards from the exit, two slashes means 200 yards and a single slash means 100 yards. If you intend to exit, you should begin indicating from the 300 yard (three slash) marker.

When pulling up, it’s necessary to indicate if it will benefit other road users.

After that, there’s no further need to indicate until the manoeuvre is complete and you’re about to pull away.

Can I be fined if my indicator bulb is out?

If you have a broken indicator light, the police may give you a "vehicle defect rectification notice".

You’ll need to get your vehicle fixed and provide proof that it’s been fixed, for example a receipt for the work from a mechanic.

You have 14 days from the date of the notice to show the proof to the police.