Common courtesy can go a long way on the South Florida roadways where most drivers always appear to be in a bad mood or in a hurry. Using your horn is a mixed bag that can either serve to alert a driver that may not be paying attention or it may unintentionally lead to a case of road rage. So, when is it best to use it and when should you not? Let’s take some scenarios into consideration.
One instance where you should always lay on the horn is if you notice that a driver is about to hit you. Often drivers forget about their blind spot and attempt to switch lanes without realizing someone is right next to them. If you feel you or your vehicle are in danger, let the driver know.
Let’s say for instance you’re going straight while a driver is trying to make a left turn in front of you. If the driver simply moved up a few inches, you could be on your way. You may be tempted to honk your horn but this could be misconstrued by the driver as if you’re telling them to turn already, which they may not be able to do. Instead, see if it’s possible to safely inch your vehicle forward and move just slightly to the right to get around them.
Here’s another scenario: the light turns green and the driver in front of you hasn’t moved for several seconds. Yes, you should honk your horn but do it only for a quick moment as a way to remind them.
On an unrelated note, if you catch a driver texting next to you, don’t honk at them. While they shouldn’t be texting and driving, it is not your duty to police the roads. Concentrate on being a good driver and driving defensively.
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This information is provided for educational or informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice.