Let’s talk about two of the most decorative features of Indian cars—indicators and side-view mirrors. No, I’m not saying they’re fancy or blingy. I’m saying they might as well not exist, because clearly, most of us don’t believe in using them. In fact, if you ask me, car manufacturers could save everyone the trouble and just offer a "no indicators, no mirrors" model at a discounted rate. “Why pay extra for something you’re not going to use, hai na?”
Indicators: The Blinkers No One Bothers to Blink
Indicators, also lovingly called turn signals (not that we’d know), are arguably the most ignored feature on Indian vehicles. We’ve collectively decided they’re for other people. If I’m taking a left turn, why should I tell you? Guess karo!
And the numbers back this up. A recent survey found that 72% of Indian drivers admit they don’t use indicators regularly. I’m convinced the other 28% lied, because honestly, when was the last time you saw an auto driver or a fancy SUV owner use that lever on their steering column?
And don’t get me started on lane-changing. Apparently, switching lanes without warning is our national sport. It's like playing Russian roulette with moving vehicles—thrilling, except for that minor risk of a massive accident.
Side-View Mirrors: Folded, Forgotten, or Forever Ignored
Then there are side-view mirrors. I have a theory about why they’re always folded inward on most Indian cars: people are saving them for "special occasions." The logic seems to be: "If I don’t use them, they’ll last longer!" Or maybe they believe these mirrors are just an ornament.
Statistically, 54% of drivers in India admit they never use their side mirrors, and another 30% fold them in permanently to avoid damage (ironic, since not using them causes more accidents). The remaining 16%? Probably two-wheeler riders pretending they own cars.
Side-view mirrors are there to help drivers see what’s behind or beside them. But instead, we prefer vibes over visuals. “Kuch nahi hai peeche, gaadi chalao na!” (Nothing is behind you, just drive!)
The Sarcastic Solution: A "Bare Minimum" Car
Let’s take this lack of utility to its logical conclusion. Why not petition car manufacturers to offer a true Indian model? Think of the savings!
No Indicators: Why waste money on bulbs, wires, and a lever when nobody’s using them? Just remove the system altogether. Manufacturers could save millions, and we could get a discount on the ex-showroom price.
No Side-View Mirrors: Forget foldable or automatic ones—ditch them entirely. Less weight, more aerodynamics. Maybe we could save a tree or two in the process (environmental bonus!).
One Horn but Louder: Since we prefer to use our horns to “indicate” everything from “I’m here” to “I’m overtaking,” let’s invest in a single supersonic horn instead.
And let’s not forget the downstream benefits! Insurance companies could simplify claims forms to say, “Were indicators or mirrors involved? No? Great, approved.” Auto accessory shops could finally stop selling those replacement mirrors for ₹200. Everybody wins!
The Bigger Picture: It’s Not Funny When Lives Are at Stake
On a serious note, the misuse (or outright non-use) of indicators and mirrors is a significant safety hazard. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 35% of road accidents in India are caused by improper lane-changing and turning—both of which are directly related to not using indicators or mirrors.
Think about that: one in three accidents could be avoided if we just used these features that are already part of the car. The economic cost of these accidents runs into thousands of crores annually, not to mention the emotional toll on families.
Let’s Try This Radical Idea: Use What You’ve Got
Here’s my challenge to every Indian driver: Let’s make indicators and mirrors great again! They’re there for a reason (not just aesthetics), and using them doesn’t cost extra. I promise, that tiny flick of your hand to turn on the indicator won’t burn calories you can’t spare. And as for mirrors, all it takes is a quick glance—hardly the stuff of Olympic effort.
In the next blog in this series, we’ll tackle the art of overtaking: Is it really necessary to “prove your power” on highways, or can we just… stay in our lanes? Until then, remember, the lever and mirrors in your car aren’t decorations—they’re lifesavers. Use them. Please.
