Are blinkers the same as turn signals?

Yes—on cars and motorcycles, “blinkers” is a common colloquial term for turn signals, the directional lights that flash to indicate a left or right turn or lane change. Some people also use “blinkers” loosely to describe hazard lights, but technically hazards flash both sides simultaneously, while turn signals flash only one side to show direction.

What the terms actually mean

In everyday North American English, “blinkers,” “turn signals,” “directionals,” and “flashers” often refer to the same thing: the vehicle lamps that blink to show your intended direction. In British and Commonwealth English, the standard term is “indicators” or “direction indicators.” Regardless of the name, the function is to communicate your next move to other road users.

Turn signals vs. hazard lights: the practical differences

While the same bulbs or LED modules are typically used for both functions, there is a key operational distinction: turn signals flash on one side to indicate direction; hazard lights flash on both sides together to warn of a stopped or slow-moving vehicle or an emergency.

Below is a quick breakdown of how the systems differ and what the rules generally require.

• Operation: Turn signal lever activates left or right side only; a separate hazard switch activates both sides simultaneously.
• Legal use: Turn signals are required for turns and lane changes; hazard lights are for breakdowns, roadside stops, or to warn of unusual danger. They’re not a substitute for signaling a turn.
• Color: In the U.S. and Canada, front turn signals must be amber; rear can be red or amber. In most countries using UN ECE regulations, rear turn signals must be amber.
• Flash rate: Most regulations specify roughly 60–120 flashes per minute; a much faster rate (“hyperflash”) often indicates a bulb fault or LED load mismatch.
• Controls and power: Hazard lights often work with the ignition off, allowing a stopped vehicle to warn others.

Taken together, the differences show that while the same lamps may blink, the intent and legal expectations for each function are distinct.

Regional terminology and usage

Drivers around the world refer to the same function with different words. Understanding the local term helps avoid confusion, especially when reading manuals or road rules in different regions.

• United States/Canada: “Turn signals,” “blinkers,” sometimes “directionals.”
• United Kingdom/Ireland: “Indicators” or “direction indicators.”
• Australia/New Zealand: “Indicators.”
• General note: “Hazard lights” or “emergency flashers” mean both sides flashing together.

Despite the vocabulary differences, the purpose is universal: to communicate intent and improve safety.

Practical tips for correct signaling

Using your turn signals (blinkers) correctly is a simple way to prevent collisions and citations. The following points cover common best practices seen across jurisdictions.

• Signal early and clearly: Activate at least several seconds before a turn or lane change; many U.S. states specify at least 100 feet in urban driving.
• Keep signaling through the maneuver: Maintain the signal until you complete the turn or merge, then cancel promptly.
• Don’t use hazards while moving in traffic: They can obscure your directional intentions and are restricted while driving in many places.
• Check for bulb/LED faults: Rapid flashing or dashboard warnings often indicate a failed lamp; repair promptly.
• Be mindful of weather and visibility: Signal even when you think no one’s around; it’s legally required and adds redundancy in low visibility.

Consistent, timely signaling helps other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians anticipate your actions and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.

Summary

In everyday usage, “blinkers” and “turn signals” refer to the same directional signaling lights on vehicles. The only caveat is that some people use “blinkers” loosely to include hazard flashers, but technically hazards flash both sides and serve a different purpose. Terminology varies by region—“indicators” in many countries—but the safety function is identical: clearly communicate your intended direction to others on the road.

What is a turn signal called?

The light used to signal a turn is officially called a turn signal or indicator, but it is also commonly known as a blinker. Other less common terms include “directional,” “direction signal,” and “trafficator”. 
Here’s a breakdown of the terms:

• Turn Signal: Opens in new tabThe most formal and official name for the light that indicates a driver’s intention to turn or change lanes. 
• Blinker: Opens in new tabA widely used informal term, especially in North America, derived from the fact that the light flashes or blinks. 
• Indicator: Opens in new tabThe standard term used in British English and other regions. 
• Directional/Directional Signal: Opens in new tabAnother term that describes the function of the light in indicating direction. 
• Trafficator: Opens in new tabAn older and more obscure term for turn signals, sometimes associated with the older style of signals that protruded from the vehicle’s body. 

Are blinkers and turn signals the same thing?

“Blinker” and “turn signal” are both terms for the flashing lights on a vehicle that indicate a turn: Blinker: An informal term for a turn signal Turn signal: The official name for the flashing lights that indicate a turn Turn signals are also known as direction indicators, directionals, or indicators.

Why do they call it a blinker?

A blinker is called a blinker because it refers to a flashing or blinking light that is used for signaling or warning, such as the flashing light on a car’s turn signal or the light on a vape that indicates an automatic shutoff or overheating condition. The term “blinker” derives from the verb “to blink,” describing the action of the light flashing on and off.
 
Common Uses of the Term “Blinker”

• Vehicle Turn Signals: Opens in new tabIn North America, the term “blinker” is often used for a car’s turn signal, which flashes on and off to indicate a change in direction. 
• Vape Pens (Slang): Opens in new tabIn slang terms, “blinker” refers to a vape device that has a blinking light. This can be a normal function to indicate a battery low, but it also occurs when someone takes an excessively long draw, hitting the device’s maximum puff time limit. 
• Horse Tack: Opens in new tabIn the equestrian world, “blinkers” (also called “blinders”) are pieces of leather on a horse’s bridle that restrict its side vision, making the horse “blink” or see only forward. 
• Signal Lamps: Opens in new tabMore broadly, “blinker” can refer to a flashing light on a naval vessel used for signaling purposes. 

Why don’t people use turn signals anymore?

People don’t use turn signals because of forgetfulness, laziness, the belief that it’s unnecessary, poor driving habits, or a lack of consideration for other drivers. Other reasons include feeling like it will give away their intentions or lead to being cut off, or simply being preoccupied or in an autopilot state on familiar routes. 
Common Reasons for Not Using Turn Signals

• Forgetfulness: Many drivers forget to signal, especially on familiar routes or when making a sudden turn. 
• Laziness: Some drivers admit to being too lazy to use their turn signals. 
• Perceived Lack of Need: Drivers may not see the point in signaling if there are no other cars around, although accidents still occur on local roads. 
• Poor Driving Habits: A lack of consideration and poor habits are significant factors in not using signals. 
• Intentional Non-Use: Some drivers intentionally avoid signaling to keep others from knowing their intentions, preventing them from being cut off or losing a lane position. 
• Autopilot/Pre-Occupation: Drivers can zone out on familiar routes, similar to how one might mindlessly go through a daily routine, causing minor details like signaling to be missed. 
• Not Enough Time: A small percentage of drivers claim not to have enough time to signal when changing lanes or turning. 

Consequences 

• Increased Risk of Accidents: Not using turn signals increases the likelihood of accidents, as it doesn’t give other drivers sufficient warning of your intentions.
• Increased Frustration: The lack of signaling can be frustrating and dangerous for other drivers on the road.