Pittsburgh – September 19, 2026 -- An Indianapolis-based inventor has filed a patent application for the U-TURN FLASHER, a signaling device designed to warn other motorists before a vehicle executes a 180-degree turn at an intersection.
Device targets a specific gap in existing turn-signal communication
Standard turn signals do not clearly indicate a U-turn maneuver, leaving other drivers to guess a vehicle's intentions. The U-TURN FLASHER is engineered to give advance, unambiguous notice of an impending U-turn, aiming to reduce collisions caused by miscommunication at intersections.
Inventor says the design also addresses driver stress during turns
"I wanted to provide motorists with a simple and clear means of signaling when making a U-turn at an intersection, so I invented the U-TURN FLASHER," the inventor said, adding that the device is intended to help prevent "senseless collisions" while also easing anxiety for drivers waiting to complete a legal U-turn.
Prototype and technical drawings are ready for manufacturer review
A working prototype and full technical drawings have been prepared and are available on request, according to the submission filed through InventHelp's Indianapolis sales office. The patent-pending design is currently open for licensing or outright sale to automotive parts manufacturers and marketers.