Signaling changes in 2018: Be a thinker, use your blinker

Q Gary, can you ask the highway sign people to post the following message as a New Year’s resolution: “In 2018, I will use my directional signal.” — Ron Thibault

A For weeks readers have sent in their suggestions and by far using your blinker tops the list. But it won’t be posted on our electronic freeway signs, as there are zillions of messages that take priority. Such as, “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze,” “Drive high, get a DUI” or “Click It or Ticket.”

Q It is time for New Year’s resolutions. I thought I would share some of mine from the past:

In 1994, I read that all cars in Canada drive with headlights on, all the time, and had improved safety outcomes. I decided to try it as a resolution and I am still doing it today.

In 2012, I decided to try using my blinkers every time I changed lanes or turned. After a few weeks, it became a habit and I have been doing it, every time, since. — Larry V.

A Good for you. Not signaling consistently ranks among the top five driving pet peeves.

Q I keep my headlights on all the time, not to help me see during the daytime but to make sure I am more visible to other drivers. This is especially important during dusk, early dawn, cloudy and rainy days.

Blinkers are a must for the same reason. They help others see you. My hope is the more visible I am the less likely someone will run into me, hopefully. — Russ Van Dyne, San Jose

A Hopefully, indeed.

Q There are bozos on the road who don’t use their blinkers to change lanes. — Ajay Patwardhan

A Bozos is way too kind.

Q You will appreciate some of the features that are showing up in new models of vehicles like my Subaru Outback.

If you turn on your windshield wipers, your headlights will come on. If you change lanes without putting on your blinker, a warning beep comes on.

There are many more, but these two should alleviate some pet peeves. — Betty Uhrig

A “Don’t be a stinker; use your blinker.” Such an easy task.

Q I vow to no longer be a Road Boulder. — Jane Chastain

A Mrs. Roadshow loves your New Year’s resolution.

Q Mr. Roadshow, I love your column and read it every day. I’ve never gotten involved in any of the issues since I live Bonny Doon and don’t know what traffic is. — Earnest Ray, Bonny Doon

A Ernie assures me that all drivers in Bonny Doon use their blinkers.