Using the horn — Montana Permit Test

If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need, such as when a walker or cyclist seems to be moving into your lane.

A long blast at a cyclist who is just drifting can startle them into a fall.

If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need.

Give a light tap on the horn when coming to a place where you cannot see ahead, such as a steep hill, a sharp curve, or the exit of a narrow alley.

A driver coming the other way around a blind curve has no other way to know you are there.

If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need.

If there is danger, such as a child about to run into the street or a car about to hit you, sound a sharp blast on the horn.

A soft tap may not reach a child chasing a ball, and a sharp blast can stop them in time.

If there is danger, do not be afraid to sound a SHARP BLAST on your horn.

Do not use your horn to make someone drive faster or get out of the way, to point out another driver's error, or to greet a friend.

Honking at a slow driver can rattle them into a mistake that causes the crash the horn is meant to prevent.

There are several occasions when you should not use your horn.

When there is no immediate danger, how should you use your horn?

With a light tap. A long blast at a cyclist who is just drifting can startle them into a fall. Montana Driver Manual, p.56: “If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need.”