When is it appropriate to use your horn while driving?

Using your horn when it may help avoid a crash is the most appropriate situation for employing this important safety tool. The primary purpose of the horn is to alert other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists to your presence, especially in situations where there is a risk of an accident. This can be crucial in preventing collisions by grabbing the attention of a driver who may not see you or is in the process of making a dangerous maneuver.

In contrast, using your horn to express frustration or simply to indicate a desire to change lanes can lead to misunderstandings or escalate conflicts. It is not a tool for communication regarding lane changes, nor is it suitable for expressing anger at other drivers. Using the horn improperly, such as when another car is simply in your way or when you're feeling frustrated, goes against the intended use and could contribute to road rage or unsafe driving conditions. Overall, the horn should be used judiciously and primarily for safety purposes.