HAVE car indicators been eradicated?

I ask because, I would estimate, 90 per cent of drivers do not bother to use signals to show other road users what their directional intentions are.

I get really browned off with those who think that using indicators is unnecessary.

How do you expect other road users to anticipate your exit route on a roundabout or junction if you can’t be bothered to flick your finger onto the indicator wand?

It doesn’t cost you any money, you’re not saving the planet by not using this facility in-built into your vehicle.

Is it just sheer laziness or ignorance?

I have been known to pull alongside offenders – where safe and appropriate – and advise them that their indicators do not appear to be in working order, only to be met – mostly by foul language – but moreover by a puzzled expression on the drivers’ face because they don’t quite understand my comment.

But generally it falls on deaf ears, and off they drive without indicating!

The most unbelievable example of non-use of the indicator recently was from a fire engine, clearly not on a call, which sauntered around the roundabout near Twinings.

I followed the fire engine which pulled sedately into Tesco car park and waited whilst some of its occupants popped in to buy what appeared to be some lunch goodies.

I stopped one of the firemen coming out of the store and queried whether the driver knew where the indicator arm was on the fire engine because he failed to make any attempt to use it on the roundabout. He thought this was quite amusing and said that he would “take great delight” in telling his driver colleague.

I wish the police would sanction a legal rule that it is a fineable offence if caught making a manoeuvre without showing a clear intention by the use of indicators – or perhaps the police don’t use them either?

Mrs Loader, Byng Walk, Admirals Way, Andover