Is not using turn signals illegal?
2 Answers
Failing to use the turn signal when making a right turn at a red light is a violation of the law and will result in penalties. Article 57 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China stipulates that motor vehicles shall use turn signals in accordance with the following provisions: When turning left, changing lanes to the left, preparing to overtake, leaving a parking spot, or making a U-turn, the left turn signal shall be activated in advance; when turning right, changing lanes to the right, returning to the original lane after overtaking, or parking by the roadside, the right turn signal shall be activated in advance. Article 90 of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China: If a motor vehicle driver violates the road traffic safety laws and regulations regarding road traffic rules, they shall be given a warning or fined not less than 20 yuan but not more than 200 yuan. If this Law provides otherwise, the punishment shall be imposed in accordance with the relevant provisions.
I remember once turning into a side road without signaling and getting pulled over and fined by the police – that was a real wake-up call. Since then, I've made it a habit to turn on my indicators a few seconds early for every turn. Not only is this legally required, but it also significantly reduces accident risks. Failing to use turn signals is indeed illegal, especially when turning or changing lanes on urban roads. Traffic laws mandate their advance use to warn following vehicles, otherwise rear-end collisions or side impacts become more likely. In places like the US and Europe, first-time offenders may face fines of $50 to $200, with repeat violations potentially resulting in demerit points or even license suspension. Driving isn't child's play – safety comes first. Nowadays, I regularly check my vehicle's indicator bulbs to ensure they're functioning properly, because prevention is always better than penalties.
