HORN

Horn  Many people in North America -- particularly the USA -- seem afraid to use the horn in case another driver gets angry, but consider the facts:

     In the USA alone, each year, over 42,000 people are killed and a vastly higher number are seriously injured through road crashes. By comparison, the number of people killed or injured through road rage is very small indeed. So even though none of us wants to be hurt by some lunatic with a weapon this has to be balanced against the much bigger risks simply from being on the road.

     If you can help reduce the chance of a crash, use the horn!

     Remember: for a pedestrian one or two short "beeps" are less aggressive and frightening; for another driver, two slightly longer "beeps" are less aggressive than a long blast; and for a truly dangerous situation use a long blast.

     As an important footnote, always use the horn with just your thumb. Keep your hand on the rim of the wheel, where it should be, so that you may still steer correctly.