A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology suggests that drivers who neglect to use turn signals may exhibit traits of egocentrism and lower empathy, according to findings from a 2023 research project conducted by a team at the University of California, Berkeley. The study analyzed driver behavior through a combination of observational data and psychological assessments, linking inconsistent use of turn signals to broader personality characteristics.
Researchers observed over 1,200 drivers across urban and suburban environments, tracking their adherence to traffic signals and other safety protocols. Participants also completed standardized personality inventories measuring traits such as narcissism, empathy, and impulsivity. The results indicated a statistically significant correlation between frequent failure to use turn signals and higher scores on measures of self-centeredness, with 34% of participants who omitted turn signals scoring in the top 20% for narcissistic traits. However, the study’s authors emphasized that correlation does not imply causation and cautioned against overgeneralizing the findings.
Dr. Maria Thompson, a cognitive psychologist at the University of California, Berkeley, who led the research, noted that “turn signals serve as a social contract between drivers. Their use or omission may reflect underlying attitudes toward shared road spaces.” The study also found that drivers who frequently failed to use turn signals were 18% more likely to report feeling “unaware of other drivers’ needs” in a follow-up survey, though this self-reported data was not independently verified.
While the study focused on behavioral patterns, it did not directly investigate the neurological or psychological mechanisms behind such tendencies. However, Dr. Thompson referenced earlier research from the National Institute of Mental Health, which found that individuals with lower empathy scores often exhibit reduced activity in brain regions associated with social cognition, such as the anterior cingulate cortex. “This could suggest a biological component to the behavior,” she said, “but more research is needed to establish a direct link.”
Law enforcement officials have long noted that improper use of turn signals contributes to road safety risks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 23% of traffic accidents in 2022 involved at least one driver failing to signal a lane change or turn. While the NHTSA does not track personality traits of drivers involved in accidents, its data underscores the practical importance of turn signals in preventing collisions. “Every driver has a responsibility to communicate their intentions clearly,” said NHTSA spokesperson James Carter. “This study adds a new dimension to understanding why some fail to do so.”
The findings have sparked debate among traffic psychologists. Dr. Alan Reyes, a behavioral scientist at the University of Michigan, pointed out that “turn signal use is a learned behavior influenced by cultural norms, not just individual traits.” He cited a 2021 study showing that drivers in countries with stricter traffic laws, such as Germany and Japan, were 40% more likely to use turn signals consistently than those in regions with more lenient enforcement. “This suggests that environmental factors play a significant role,” Reyes said.
Despite the study’s limitations, it has raised questions about how driver behavior is assessed. Traditional safety training focuses on mechanical skills, but some experts argue that psychological factors should be integrated. “We teach people how to brake and steer, but not how to consider others on the road,” said Dr. Thompson. “This could be a gap in driver education programs.”
For drivers, the study offers a nuanced perspective on a common annoyance. While some may view failure to use turn signals as a minor oversight, the research suggests it could reflect deeper behavioral patterns. However, the study’s authors stress that individual cases should not be judged based on a single action. “A driver might forget to signal due to a momentary lapse, not a lack of empathy,” said Dr. Reyes. “Context matters.”
The study’s results also have implications for vehicle design. Automakers are increasingly incorporating features that remind drivers to use turn signals, such as audible alerts and dashboard prompts. Tesla’s Autopilot system, for example, now includes a “signal reminder” function that activates when the vehicle detects an upcoming turn. While these technologies aim to improve safety, they do not address the root causes of inconsistent behavior.
As the research continues, experts agree that further investigation is needed. “This is just one piece of a complex puzzle,” said Dr. Thompson. “We need longitudinal studies to see if these behavioral patterns persist over time and whether interventions can effectively address them.” In the meantime, the study serves as a reminder that even small driving habits can reveal a lot about the people behind the wheel.
For drivers concerned about their own behavior, the study offers a call to self-reflection. While no single action defines a person’s character, awareness of how one’s actions impact others is a crucial step toward safer roads. As Dr. Reyes noted, “Driving is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about navigating a shared space with others.” Whether that space is a busy city street or a quiet suburban road, the way drivers communicate their intentions can make all the difference.
For more information on road safety practices, the NHTSA offers a free online course on defensive driving techniques