Road etiquette is an often-overlooked aspect of driving that impacts traffic flow and driver morale. While informal gestures like flashing hazard lights or waving exist to acknowledge courteous acts (e.g., allowing another driver to merge), these methods are inconsistent and sometimes misunderstood. A standardized way to express gratitude on the road could reduce frustration and foster a more positive driving culture.

The Idea: A Dedicated "Thank You" Light

One way to address this could be integrating a dedicated "thank you" light at the rear of vehicles, activated by a button inside the car. When a driver performs a courteous act (like yielding or allowing a merge), the recipient could press the button to briefly illuminate the light. The signal could use a distinct color (e.g., soft yellow or green) or pattern (e.g., a quick double flash) to differentiate it from brake lights or turn signals. This would require minimal additional hardware, potentially repurposing existing lights like rear fog lights.

Why It Could Work

Unlike informal methods, a standardized light would be:

• More visible: Works in all conditions, unlike hand waves.
• Unambiguous: Avoids confusion with hazard lights.
• Low-effort: A steering wheel button would make it easy to use.

Automakers might adopt this as a premium safety feature, while regulators could standardize the signal to ensure universal recognition. Pilot programs in specific regions could test driver adoption and comprehension before broader rollout.

Potential Path Forward

An MVP could involve partnering with one automaker to integrate the feature into a new model, using existing lights and controls. If successful, standardization efforts could follow, encouraging wider adoption. Aftermarket kits might also allow retrofitting older vehicles.

While small, this idea could make driving interactions slightly more pleasant by adding a universal way to say "thanks" on the road.