How can the use of turn signals prevent accidents?

The use of turn signals is crucial for promoting safety on the road as they inform other road users of your intended actions. When a driver activates their turn signal, it communicates to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that a change in direction or lane is about to occur. This advance warning helps to prevent misunderstandings and allows others to anticipate the driver’s movements, thus reducing the likelihood of collisions. By signaling intentions clearly, drivers create a safer environment and enhance overall traffic flow.

In contexts where other options may seem relevant, they do not directly address the primary purpose of turn signals, which is to convey intent on the road. For instance, while a driver being alert is important, simply being alert does not inherently prevent accidents. Additionally, allowing drivers to speed up is not a function of turn signals; in fact, speeding can often lead to increased risks. Lastly, signaling the presence of police does not pertain to the function of turn signals used for indicating direction or lane changes.