KY Law and Turn Signals — Fewer Drivers Seem to Be Using Them
Technology is amazing. And when it comes to my car, I'll take all you can give me. Push-button starts, REMOTE starts, Bluetooth, Wifi. Bring it.
FIND YOUR TURN SIGNAL
But there's one instrument on our vehicles that cannot be improved upon. It is the turn signal. There is no remote activation; you can't make it blink telekinetically. You need to take your left hand and push it down or push it up, depending on the direction you wish to turn. (Not too hard, though; you don't want to break the stem like I did one time.)
Yes, I'm exaggerating, but only because it's become increasingly noticeable how few drivers are using their turn signals, of late. I'm not saying NOBODY is using them. But during Christmas break, I had several encounters with motorists who didn't feel it necessary to use one. So let's look into what Kentucky law has to say about it.
THERE IS A KENTUCKY TURN SIGNAL STATUTE
First of all, I have never known of ANYONE who has been cited for not using a turn signal. But there is a Kentucky statute about it and, in light of what I've seen recently, it's a good time to bone up on it.
A signal indicating the intention to turn right or left shall be given continuously for not less than the last one hundred (100) feet traveled by the motor vehicle before the turn.
The comprehensive statute also advises WHEN to make a turn, what types of signals motorists should be using, and to use hand signals appropriately if the vehicle in question isn't a motorized vehicle.
Now, here's an interesting question. Are those of us who are regular practitioners of using turn signals really doing it the right way? Is it a rote gesture we perform without thinking? Here's a demonstration, just in case:
OTHER FACETS OF THE KENTUCKY TURN SIGNAL STATUTE
The law states that signals used by drivers must be mechanical devices. Now, if your signal isn't working, get it fixed, of course. But in the short term, I guess you'd HAVE to use hand signals...unless you're among those who DON'T use turn signals, which is why we're here in the first place.
Again, I don't know that failure to use a turn signal would lead to a citation--I know of no such instances within my family and circle of friends--but it's VERY helpful to fellow motorists.
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