Hello World, My Name is Turn Signal

I've mentioned in the past that I live by three schools. Two elementary schools and one high school. Two of those schools are charter schools. Now I have nothing against charter schools in theory or in practice. I DO; however, have MUCH to complain about the parents who drop their kids off at said schools. Why they all drive mini vans, I neither know nor care, but I DO care that the entire lot (no, not generalization-fact based upon observation as I am trying to drive to work each morning) of them have no concept of the turn signal.

For those avid readers of CPR who care about the history of the turn signal, wikipedia and I will break it down for you... they've been around a while and they are a great idea. Let me further break it down by saying that the ability to signal whether we want to go left or right is what separates us from beasts. Yes, the turn signal civilizes us. The turn signal transformed us into a polite group of people who are not only safe, but also considerate of others around them.

Note to any charter school parents reading this: DO NOT dodge and weave as though you are on a bumper car collision course. CHECK all rear view and side mirrors BEFORE darting into the street. USE YOUR TURN SIGNALS! For the love of all humanity USE THEM.

Comments

Tracy said…
I'm with you on this 100%. I feel like SO many people in Utah don't use the turn signal... not sure if they are just not paying attention or what, but they don't last very long then everyone is running the red light because they waited for the dumb person in front to actually turn when the arrow was green. UGG!
Karen E. said…
I could go on and on about Utah drivers, and this is one of the worst things that I have noticed. However, my current rant about my commute is about pedestrians (students) who seem to have no realization that the roads are for CARS and not for them to use as places to stop and text, stop and hug their friends, or dart into unexpectedly.
Wendy said…
I love you! So funny. And I agree. Sadly, now that we live "in the south" or "in the south east" or wherever we live, we still have turn signal problems! People here don't use them either. AND people here drive so slowly. I sm sure it is really safe...unless is is 40 on the freeway. NOT SAFE! I was so bummed to learn that there are bad drivers everywhere. I will join you on your crusade to get everyone to use turn signals though.
Kara said…
AMEN! The turn signal is a form of communication to the other cars. The saddest part is, I LIVE with one of these people and have to refrain from screaming at him every time he wonders why the people in the other lane won't "let him in." Any ideas on how to enlighten these people who are oblivious to the little blinking light?
smithfieldman said…
Turn signals are a great invention, muck like windshield wipers, brakes, and other things that are great to use when driving
The Rage said…
If my turn signals ever start working again on my car I will be sure to use them :)Until then - get out of my way!