Do you need to manually turn off the turn signal when making a right-angle turn?
3 Answers
You do not need to manually turn off the turn signal when making a right-angle turn. If it turns off automatically, quickly turn it back on. The solution for the turn signal automatically turning off during a right-angle turn is as follows: After straightening the car body, while holding the steering wheel with your left hand, your left middle or ring finger should keep pressing the left turn signal. When preparing to turn off the turn signal, turn the steering wheel one full turn to the left, then quickly straighten it. At this point, the turn signal will automatically turn off, and you don't have to worry about accidentally switching to the right turn signal. To avoid common errors when turning off the turn signal, when about to turn it off, turn the steering wheel 90 degrees to the left, then quickly straighten it. At this point, the turn signal will automatically reset, preventing any incorrect switching. Before the turn, keep the speed low in a low gear, and straightening the car body is key. Use second gear at low speed and stay close to the outside, remembering not to cross the line. When the front of the car approaches the turning point, turn the steering wheel quickly without delay. First check if the path ahead is clear, then proceed slowly with caution. Watch the rear wheels in the rearview mirror, and remember to turn the steering wheel back.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, let me share some insights. Most of the time, you don't need to worry about forgetting to turn off your turn signals because there's an automatic reset mechanism when the steering wheel returns to center position – the lights will turn off by themselves. However, I've encountered situations where the steering wheel didn't fully return after making small-angle turns, causing the signal to keep flashing. In such cases, you'll need to manually turn it off. Honestly, developing this habit is beneficial – it takes no effort to glance at your dashboard after completing a turn. When teaching new drivers, I always emphasize developing the habit of turning off signals promptly, especially during driving tests where examiners are particularly strict – they might deduct points for signals flashing just a couple seconds too long. The same principle applies to fog lights during rainy days – many drivers forget to turn them off.
Just passed the driving test's Subject 2 and want to share some tips. The instructor kept emphasizing that you must turn off the turn signal immediately after completing a 90-degree turn, saying it's a must-check item in the exam. At first, I thought the signal would automatically turn off when the steering wheel was straightened, but during one practice session, I only turned the wheel back 90%, leaving the signal on, and got scolded by the instructor. Now, after every turn, it's become a reflex to flick the lever—it's just a simple motion anyway. On the road, I've noticed some experienced drivers change lanes without signaling. I believe we should always signal for an adequate amount of time when needed and never slack off on turning them off. Safe driving is all about paying attention to the details.
