Motorists could face a hefty fine of up to £5,000 and receive nine points on their licence for the simple mistake of misusing their indicators.

Indicators serve as an essential communication tool in vehicles, signalling intentions to other road users and pedestrians before making a manoeuvre, thus helping to prevent accidents. However, incorrect use of indicators can lead to confusion and increase the likelihood of collisions.

According to Rule 104 of the Highway Code, signals are crucial for warning and informing others on the road, and drivers must signal clearly and timely without misleading anyone. The Highway Code recommends signalling to other road users before "changing course or direction, stopping or moving off" and reminds drivers to cancel the signal once it is no longer necessary.

The Highway Code further advises: "Make sure your signals will not confuse others. If, for instance, you want to stop after a side road, do not signal until you are passing the road. If you signal earlier it may give the impression that you intend to turn into the road."

To ensure adherence to the Highway Code and avoid confusing or misleading other road users and pedestrians, it is essential to follow the 'mirrors, signal, manoeuvre' rule. This means flashing your indicator confidently and in a timely manner to provide ample response time for fellow road users.

Fine for incorrectly using indicators

However, caution is advised not to signal too prematurely to avoid leading others astray. Misuse of indicators can attract police attention as 'careless and inconsiderate driving', a legal offence according to the Metropolitan Police who define it thus: "The offence of driving without due care and attention (careless driving) is committed when your driving falls below the minimum standard expected of a competent and careful driver, and includes driving without reasonable consideration for other road users."

If found guilty of this, one could face a fine up to £5,000 and nine penalty points on their licence. While fixes-penalty notices (FPNs) may be issued at £100 and three points by police using their discretion, the severity of the contravention would influence the actual penalty awarded.

Bear in mind that for a novice driver with less than two years of licence holding, accruing up to six points on their licence will result in its revocation. Consequently, the driver will have to retake their test before they can independently drive again.

Complete information on the Highway Code's regulations regarding signals can be accessed online here.