As a pro driver it’s my responsibility to deliver my load of goods safely & on time. This normally isn’t a problem for me as I’ve been behind the wheel now for 37 years with an almost immaculate driving record. I remember as a child learning to drive in my Dads 47' Ford Stakebed Truck. I was around 13 years old in 66’ and Boy Oh Boy did I love to drive that truck.
We had a pretty nice spread with I’d say about 50 or so acres. There was a dirt road that went almost all the way around and crossed town just a few miles down. Dad would sit there in the passenger seat
coaching me down the road as he sipped his coffee. There was a confidence in his voice that I still hear today sometimes guiding me through a tough spot. Dad would always remind me that there would be other folks on the “big road” and that I should respect them the same as I would in person. He made sure that I didn’t forget to signal with my arm which way I was turning even though there was nobody else around. Just practicing respect for the other driver he’d always say.
I was just about to turn 15 when he let me drive her into town for the first time. With my Dad at my side I proudly drove that old truck down main street to the A&W. I remember like it was yesterday, that was the sweetest Root Beer Float I’ve ever had. After enjoying our floats we had a load to haul. We we’re in town to visit the hardware shop for lumber and supplies. That 47' Ford drove a bit different on the way home but she got us there. With my Dad at my side and on down the road he’d say “you’re doin’ fine son, don’t forget to check your mirrors”. This was the day that I became a trucker.
I’m old enough to remember a time when turn signals truly were optional on vehicles. Anymore it seems the big car manufacturers must be offering the option again. Is it really so tough to flip a lever up or down to signal others on the road what your intentions are? It’s really not that tough. I don’t so much get angry with other drivers but more feel sorry for them. I’m sorry that no one ever took the time to teach them respect for the road and others on it.
What bothers me more than anything is when I’m at a 4 way stop lets say pointing N. & headed W. Another driver coming into the intersection from the E. to the W. with no signal on, I’m thinking he’s headed straight through so I sit and wait (don’t wanna pull out in-front of someone). At the last moment he spikes his brakes, hangs a left and shoots off past me headed S. Son of a Gun & Boy Oh Boy if I weren’t my Daddies son. . .
My point is, for no real reason, no personal gain this person made me sit and wait on him to come all the way down the road and turn. If I had known he was turning I could have went on about my business and been well down the road. This is just the tip of the iceberg with these “optional turn signals”.