A quick lesson in the use of the 'indicator'

I appreciate that the subject about which I write is complicated, so I shall attempt to put it as simply as possible. I wish to draw attention to the 'indicator'. Cars have only had these in one form or another for about 100 years, so I understand many might not know about its existence.

The indicator is used to let other road users and pedestrians know when a driver intends to turn - by illuminating a blinking amber light on either the left or right side of the car, depending upon which way the vehicle intends to turn. Amazing, isn't it? The switch is usually located on the steering column and can be found on all makes of car, not just top-of-the-range-I'm-so-rich-and-you're-so-poor type cars.

The indicator should not be confused with the hazard lights, which in Hong Kong seem to mean: 'I might turn, break, accelerate, park, change lanes, change radio station, change my mind . . . but I haven't decided yet'.

All this came to my attention after seeing a pedestrian get side-swiped by a car in Central after the vehicle turned into a side road without indicating. Thankfully, the pedestrian was not hurt. The driver then had the nerve to curse at the victim for not looking where he was going.

I should not have to write as if explaining to five-year-olds. Surely all this is common sense . . . isn't it?

PAUL RIMMER