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It recommends regular use of the horn as part of a day-to-day driving, just to let people know you are around and as a way of signaling and thanking. The Institute of Advanced Motorists believes too many people are worried about being seen as aggressive or pushy if they use their horn.
It also says the growing incidence of road rage sees people using their horn aggressively, blasting to get traffic moving or out of their way.
"In fact, the whole purpose of the horn is to warn other road users of your presence. They may not have noticed you or simply cannot see you," the institute says.
"Ideally you should consider sounding your horn on approach to any hazard. This does not mean of course that you actually have to use it each time, just consider it." The IAM also recommends different toots for different situations.
"You should adjust the length of the horn note to suit the particular circumstances at the time. As a general rule, the closer you are to the hazard, the shorter the note to be used because you don't want to startle someone.
"On the other hand, if you are well back from the hazard or if there is less chance of the horn being heard because of background noise or at higher speeds, a longer note could be considered."."
Typically, the bottom line is very British and well-mannagered.
"Use your horn as you would your own voice and you won't go too far wrong."
