How to Use Turn Signals When Overtaking on the Highway?
2 Answers
When overtaking on the highway, turn on the left turn signal. Overtaking should be performed from the left side of the vehicle in front. After overtaking and maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, turn on the right turn signal and return to the original lane. According to Article 47 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, when overtaking, motor vehicles should turn on the left turn signal in advance, switch between high and low beams, or sound the horn. Below are relevant introductions about overtaking: 1. The vehicle in front: On roads without a central line or with only one motor vehicle lane in the same direction, when the vehicle in front receives an overtaking signal from the vehicle behind, it should reduce speed and give way to the right if conditions permit. 2. The vehicle behind: After confirming there is sufficient safe distance, overtake from the left side of the vehicle in front. After maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, turn on the right turn signal and return to the original lane.
I remember when I used to drive on the highway, signaling before overtaking was basic common sense. With high speeds on the highway, every move must be steady. Before starting to overtake, you must first turn on the left turn signal—this light tells others you're moving into the left lane. Don’t be careless; after turning on the signal, wait a few seconds, check the rearview mirror and side view, and make sure no cars are approaching or there’s enough safe distance behind before accelerating. Keep the acceleration smooth, avoiding sudden speed changes. After completing the overtake, don’t rush to turn off the signal—switch to the right turn signal to indicate your return to the original lane, and only turn it off once your car is fully back in the right lane. Developing this habit can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. I’ve personally witnessed several highway rear-end collisions caused by reckless lane changes without signaling—it’s just not worth the risk. Safe driving should always come first, and these small actions can be lifesavers on long drives.
