When are you required to use turn signals?

The requirement to use turn signals before changing lanes, turning, or merging is grounded in the principles of safe and effective communication on the road. Signaling your intentions allows other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to anticipate your actions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall traffic flow.

Using turn signals is a critical practice that enhances safety and helps prevent misunderstandings between road users. When you signal before making a lane change, turn, or merge, it provides a clear indication of your intended maneuver, allowing others to adjust their speed or position accordingly.

In contrast, signaling only during nighttime driving, at a stop sign, or solely in parking lots does not encompass the essential functions of turn signals in various driving conditions and scenarios where communication is necessary. By adhering to the rule of signaling in broader contexts—specifically before any significant maneuvers—you ensure a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.