When are you required to signal before making a turn?

The requirement to signal at least 100 feet before making a turn is established to enhance safety and communication on the road. This distance provides adequate time for drivers and pedestrians to be aware of the upcoming maneuver, allowing them to adjust their actions accordingly. By signaling in advance, you are informing other road users of your intentions, which is vital in preventing misunderstandings that could lead to accidents.

In residential areas, while signaling is still necessary, there isn’t a specific requirement for distance mentioned that is exclusive to those areas, which eliminates that choice. Signaling only when changing lanes is also misleading, as drivers are required to signal for all turns—this includes turning at intersections or into driveways. The choice regarding signaling only when other drivers are present fails to reflect the law, as signaling is a general requirement irrespective of whether other drivers are around.

By adhering to the rule of signaling at least 100 feet prior to a turn, you contribute to safer road conditions and clearer communication among all users of the road.