Mark Foster formulated on Saturday :
I'll do it for you....
The theory goes that giving a signal irrespective of need, leads to lack of proper observation. If the 'leads to' is replaced with 'can lead to', it makes a little more sense to those of us in the opposing camp.
The experts method (1):- You carry out your observation and then if you perceive a need for a signal, you give a signal.
My method (2):- You carry out your final observation whilst at the same time reaching for the indicator switch. You turn it on every time at a point you carefully choose based upon your observation. You 'program' yourself to never carry out the manouver, unless you have given the signal, the signal goes hand in hand with the observation.
Method 1 has nothing which ensures you do actually carry out the observation. A failure to give the signal could be equally due to seeing no need, or to have simply omitted both the observation along with the signal. It also might cause you to omit a signal when someone unseen might benefit.
Method 2 Ensures those around you will always know you intend making a manouver. It covers both the possibility that your observation may not be 100% and for other vehicles suddenly appearing. My sequence always follows 1. careful observation, 2. choosing the point to initiate the signal, 3. making the manouver. Easy as falling off a log, you simply make sure you always follow the sequence. My own programming will not allow me to make a manouver without the signal, my own programming will not allow allow me to give the signal without making the a proper final observation.
Roundabouts what do you do 1132were saying : Because it encourages autopilot and poor observation. It shouldn't. Because they should be looking. Exactly. You...
Method 2 has a slight disadvantage in that you can look a bit of a fool signalling in the middle of the night to no one in particular to see it and a little extra wear and tear on the indicators. The method will also incur the wrath of the 'experts', but I can cope with all of those.
I personally could switch methods without any difficulty. However I feel method 2 has crucial safety advantages over method 1.
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Regards, Harry (M1BYT) (L)
