Mike G formulated the question :
Because there is no logical explanation and no hard and fast rule.
Gear changes summing up! 5570Isn't it obvious? Why make the following driver have to 'realise' you are slowing down, rather than give them a clear signal...
As Mr Bitsy seems unable to provide an argument, then I will attempt to explain my own point of view on this.
Under normal circumstances engine braking is such a very gentle way of decreasing speed, it gives anyone following plenty of time to realise that one is slowing down and plenty of time in which to respond. Anything more than that and the brakes would be applied anyway.
What next, make it a rule that everyone should apply their brakes, so that their brake lights come on every time they lift their foot from the accelerator? After all, on all but steeper down inclines you will be slowing down and perhaps the driver behind might not be able judge by the fact that your vehicle is getting larger that you have slightly decreased speed.
If you really are being followed too closely, then I suppose there is no harm in dabbing at the brakes to give some advance warning, plus using the gears to slow down gently, however....
Too much use of the brakesbrake lights can devalue them to the point that they no longer fulfil their intended purpose.....
Imagine following a vehicle with a nervous driver, where every few seconds they apply their brakes gently and their brake lights come on. The first few times it happens your natural response will be to lift off the gas and to cover the brakes. Eventually you involuntarily modify your driving to filter out the brake lights and you no longer actively respond to them. One of those times they might just be applying their brakes in earnest and your only way to determine it is genuine, is the fact that their vehicle is quickly getting nearer to your own.
Brake lights can only be on or off, they give no indication at all whether you are stopping very gently or extremely quickly.
--
Regards, Harry (M1BYT) (L)
