Is the turn signal up-left and down-right?
2 Answers
It is incorrect to say the turn signal is up-left and down-right. Pushing the lever downward activates the left turn signal, while pushing it upward activates the right turn signal. Returning it to the middle position turns it off. Below are the correct usage methods for turn signals: 1. When overtaking, first signal left and then right. According to regulations, overtaking must be done from the left side, so the left turn signal should be activated first. After overtaking, when returning to the original lane, activate the right turn signal. 2. Signal left when entering a highway and right when exiting. This is because entering a highway involves turning left, while exiting involves turning right. Similarly, signal left when merging from an auxiliary road to a main road and right when moving from a main road to an auxiliary road. 3. No signal is needed when entering a roundabout, but the right turn signal should be activated when exiting. This is because vehicles must follow the flow when entering a roundabout, so no signal is required. The purpose of signaling right when exiting is to alert vehicles behind and oncoming traffic. This is a clear stipulation in the new traffic regulations. Previously, many drivers would signal left when entering a roundabout.
When I first started driving, I was also a bit confused about operating the turn signals. I remember during my driving lessons, the instructor always emphasized not to mix up the directions. Actually, in the driver's seat, the turn signal lever is on the right side of the steering wheel—pushing it down activates the left turn signal, and lifting it up activates the right turn signal. This design aligns with the direction you turn the steering wheel—your hand naturally moves down when turning left and lifts up when turning right. At first, I occasionally mixed them up, especially when switching to a new car and feeling unfamiliar with the controls, but it became second nature with practice. The key point is that this relates to safe driving—using the signals correctly allows others to understand your actions in time, avoiding rear-end collisions or misjudgments. I recommend that beginners practice more on city roads, checking the dashboard lights to confirm activation and building muscle memory.
