Shift Gear First or Turn Signal First?
2 Answers
First turn on the turn signal, then shift gears, and finally steer. 1. Reason: Turning on the turn signal is to inform others that you are about to start, so please pay attention. At this time, others notice you, giving you time to shift gears, and you can steer shortly after starting. Steering while the car is moving is easier than when it is stationary (rolling requires less effort than pure friction when stationary), which means you use less force and also protect the steering system. 2. Notes: There is no strict order, but generally, it is advisable to turn on the signal before shifting gears. One reason is to avoid forgetting to signal, and the other is that signals should be turned on three seconds in advance, so the three seconds after signaling can be used to shift gears.
When I first started learning to drive, I was always confused about the sequence. Later, my instructor repeatedly emphasized the importance of forming good habits: first turn on the turn signal, then shift gears or perform the turning action. Why? Because the turn signal communicates your intention to surrounding drivers, giving them time to prepare. If you skip this step and directly shift gears to change lanes or turn, the vehicle behind may be caught off guard, increasing the risk of a collision. This is especially important for manual transmission vehicles—after signaling, you can smoothly shift gears. The same applies to automatic transmissions; signaling first ensures safety. After experiencing a few close calls, I understood its importance and often remind friends to regularly check if their lights are working properly. Developing this habit not only reduces accidents but also makes driving more relaxed and enjoyable.
