GM has filed a patent application for an automatic turn signal indicator system. The filing was made under patent number US 2025/0187532 A1 with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and was submitted on December 11th, 2023. The filing was published on June 12th, 2025, and lists several engineers as the inventors, including Vaibhav J. Lawand, Steven J. Vance, Mohammadali Shahriari, Mehdi Abroshan, Hassan Askari, Khizar Ahmad Qureshi, and Puneet Bagga.
The GM patent describes an automatic turn signal indication system designed to help drivers who forget to use their turn signals while driving. This system uses sensors, vehicle data, and predictive software to figure out when a driver is likely to make a turn or change lanes. Once it predicts that the driver is about the turn, the system can automatically activate the appropriate turn signal without the driver doing anything. The system can also alert the driver if they selected the wrong signal or missed using one entirely. In some cases, the system may even override or delay signal activation if needed, such as when a driver has their hand on the signal stalk but hasn’t activated it yet.
What makes this system particularly interesting is its ability to predict driver intent using probability models. The system considers things like past driving behavior, vehicle speed, sensor inputs, and map data to estimate the likelihood of a turn or lane change. This system goes well beyond current turn signal systems by taking over when a driver forgets to signal or makes a mistake, aiming to improve safety and reduce confusion on the road.
Not only could such a system help to reduce accidents caused by drivers who fail to signal before a turn or lane change, it can also assist beginner drivers, teen drivers, or those in fleet vehicles where extra safety features may be appreciated. Additionally, it could provide feedback to drivers or even insurance companies about how often turn signals were missed or misused.
Comments
Normally I would say unnecessary just let me drive the vehicle. However, today’s young people either skipped driver education or just don’t care. If they use their turn signals at all they use them as they begin the turn rather than signaling in advance so other drivers around them are prepared or change lanes if needed. And they almost never use them before changing lanes.
Apparently you’ve don’t live or have never had the chance to drive in Florida. The downside of the young people here and in every state is their urge to speed. When I was young I had the same urge and grew out of it as most do. But in Florida the elderly have completely forgotten what a turn signal is for. Maybe they’re so old they don’t even remember that a vehicle comes with them when you buy one.
What if my Misses and I are driving along to get dinner at 4:30 at the Ponderosa and she impulsively decides to make a quick stop at Ames to pick up some Q-Tips and a bottle of Avon? I have to jam on the brakes to turn into the parking lot. So, how is this supposed to work?
Automakers could save millions of dollars by not installing turn signals in the first place since a majority of drivers neglect to use them at all. Whether its selfishness or my own personal observations that drivers have a cellphone in one hand & a cheeseburger in the other. Plainly they just don’t care. You’re supposed to signal your intentions before making a turn or lane change not after you are in the left turn lane or halfway in the lane change. Afterall, none of us are mind readers. I guess y’all forgot what you were taught in drivers ed. 🙄
The most frustrating is when I am driving along on a rural road and some guy in a La Sabre brakes for no apparent reason long before he finally puts his signal on when he is immediately approaching (on top of it) the intersection. I can’t anticipate what he is doing and save fuel and brakes.
It’s a good idea that’s long overdue and if the patent is granted then there will be a few bugs that will have to be worked out, but I like the idea.
On another note, did anyone notice who the engineers are that put the idea together? Not one Smith or Johnson in the bunch. What does that tell you?
“If my Grandad was still alive, his turn signal would still be on.” Ha! Ha!
I’m not a fan of over tech, but I do agree with most of the comments here. MOST folks, young or otherwise, don’t know how to use their turn signals properly. My Dad taught me “Your turn signal should flash at least 3 times before you brake or turn the steering wheel.”
It is to convey your intentions so others can act accordingly.
Usually, the ding-dong ahead of us is driving slow meaning they are looking to turn off the road at some point. All of a sudden, they slow down more then turn without using the signals. We always joke that the ding-dong didn’t order the optional “turn signal package”. hahaha
Proof that we’re blessed with breathing being an involuntary response.
Congratulations on the worst idea ever. No thank you. Cheers!
More “base” cost.