Safe Driving 101: Understanding road languages and driver signals

Have you ever wondered about the different methods drivers use to communicate while driving? Well, drivers use different signals to convey their intentions, frustrations, and warnings. Effective communication is crucial for safe and efficient driving, and one of the most common methods is the use of flashlights.

Flashlights (Headlights)

Even though headlights are one of the most strongly used means of communication on the road, they are also a vital means of communication, as they do more than just illuminate the path ahead of you. Headlights serve more than just illuminating the road ahead.

For example, a quick flash of the headlights can mean different things depending on the road situation. You can use your headlights to ask for directions ahead. If you flash your lights multiple times, and the driver responds with multiple flashes as well, that's an indication that you shouldn't proceed. But if he switches on his full beam lights, that's a sign that the path ahead is clear for passage.

However, communication is only effective when there's feedback, so do well to wait a few seconds for feedback. Also, if you're driving and notice multiple cars flashing their lights at you simultaneously, that means you should reduce your speed and proceed with caution. If you're driving and notice a car flashing multiple times at you, what that driver is simply saying is that you should give way. It could be that you're driving too slow or there's an emergency, or he's simply telling you to stop so he can ask for directions.

2. High Beams

Drivers might use high beams to alert others to turn off their high beams if they're too bright and blinding. They do this by briefly switching on or flashing their own high beams. High beams can also signal distress, indicating that the driver might need assistance. However, do well to not abuse their use. Driving with high beams can be just as detrimental when used wrongly.

3. Horns

In Nigeria, this is the most abused but hilarious means of communication. It could mean "come and open the gate," "Daddy is back," it could mean "leave the way," it could mean "how far," it could mean "there's danger ahead."

However, in professional driving, the horn is perhaps the most versatile communication tool at a driver's disposal. Its meaning can vary based on the duration and context. A short honk can be a friendly alert to say hello, or go ahead, or signaling that it's safe for another driver to proceed, especially at intersections.

A prolonged horn most times indicates a warning. It's commonly used to tell another driver of an impending danger, while repeated honks can be a signal for emergency or to express frustrations/annoyance in traffic.

Hand Signals

Regardless of the advent of advanced car features, hand signals remain a vital and useful form of communication amongst drivers. Extending the left arm straight out indicates an intention to turn left; a right turn is signaled by extending the left arm out and upward, forming a 90-degree angle at the elbow.

While to indicate stopping or slowing down, a driver can extend the left arm out and downward. Knowing and understanding the different means of communication among drivers is very important for enhancing safety and cooperation on our roads.

Ultimately,the proper use of flashlights, horns, and hand signals serves as vital non-verbal cues that communicate intentions, warn off potential hazards, and ensure the smooth flow of traffic. By being acquainted with these signals, understanding and utilizing them appropriately, drivers can contribute greatly to creating a safer and more efficient driving environment for all road users. I hope you understand these driving languages and put them to proper use.