Many car accidents happen in Florida due to minor mistakes. Not using a turn signal can be an oversight that turns into a severe collision. Accidents happen even when using turn signals, but incredibly, changing the color of the turn signal could reduce collisions significantly.
A detailed study conducted in 2008 revealed that red turn signals aren’t necessarily the best choice: Amber and orange offer potentially better safety results. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration discovered that amber turn signals reduced potential rear-end collisions by 22%. The agency noted that such collisions may occur when turning, parking or changing lanes. In short, the collisions happen when people should, and do, use turn signals.
While not as effective as amber turn signals, orange lights also provide better results than red ones. The NHTSA noticed a 5% decrease in accidents when vehicles used orange turn signals.
The NHTSA also examined vehicle similarities. Even when most features were the same, the change in turn signal colors delivered results, yet red seems to be the common turn signal choice for most models. Manufacturers stick with using red. Doing some comes with reduced costs that the company does not have to pass onto the consumer. Even though the added costs of amber lights are not that much, manufacturers don’t appear to have much interest in making changes, nor are they compelled to do so.
Owners can change their turn signal colors at a local service station. The material cost isn’t very much, typically around $10, and the job isn’t too involved. Doing so could add a preferable layer of safety.
Negligence such as not using a turn signal does factor into many auto accidents, unfortunately. A person hurt in an accident might wish to discuss litigation with an attorney to recoup their costs.