Drivers in Rotherham are worried that more and more people on the road are refusing to use their indicators.
Other road users said problem is becoming a daily occurrence. On some heavily used roads it’s becoming a hazard, and it’s affecting all kinds of drivers.
Tom Moore, 18, from Rawmarsh, said: “I absolutely love my car, I care about it so much, and I also really care about my insurance.”
On multiple occasions, he has noticed drivers not using their indicators, whether just neglecting to use them altogether or being distracted while driving, and as a result he’s had to come to sharp stops or change his judgment at junctions.
Tom passed his driving test a few months ago, but has been a huge car-fanatic for years as it’s a hobby he shares with his Dad. His car, a Mini, is his pride and joy.
He said: “As a new driver, something like this could really knacker my insurance, and it feels more and more like a hit or a crash I’d get into would be because of something simple and stupid as someone not using their indicator. I don’t want to feel unsafe when driving.”
But the issue doesn’t seem to be reserved solely for drivers. Pedestrians are being affected too.
Karen Child, 55, from Broom, said: “On the occasions that I walk to work instead of drive, it’s still an issue. If I’m trying to get across a roundabout, I’m stuck for ages trying to guess whether the cars are coming my way.”
She said she has been driving for years, but feels as though people not using their indicators is a more recent problem.
She added: “I second-guess my own driving, which I shouldn’t be doing. I’m a confident driver and I’ve driven across the UK taking my family on holiday. But nowadays I’m left doubting the other drivers on the road.”
The issue has also been noticed by professionals.
Shamus Khan, a driving instructor for Strive2Drive Academy, said: “It is a common problem we encounter daily in my work. We must learn and teach ourselves to anticipate better.”