Should I Signal When Overtaking in the Far Left Lane?
2 Answers
In the far left lane, overtaking is not allowed. Therefore, there is no need to use the turn signal. Prohibited overtaking situations: According to Article 43 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law": When motor vehicles are driving in the same lane, the following vehicle should maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front to allow for emergency braking measures. Overtaking is prohibited under any of the following circumstances: the vehicle in front is making a left turn, U-turn, or overtaking; there is a possibility of meeting an oncoming vehicle; the vehicle in front is a police car, fire truck, ambulance, or engineering rescue vehicle performing emergency duties; passing through railway crossings, intersections, narrow bridges, curves, steep slopes, tunnels, pedestrian crossings, or urban areas with heavy traffic where overtaking conditions are not met. Relevant regulations: Motor vehicles passing through intersections should proceed according to traffic signals, signs, markings, or the direction of traffic police; when passing through intersections without traffic signals, signs, markings, or traffic police direction, they should slow down and yield to pedestrians and vehicles with the right of way.
I remember driving for over twenty years, and every time I overtake in the leftmost lane, I always diligently use the left turn signal. It's not just a rule—it's an ironclad safety measure. Early on, I once skipped signaling out of laziness and nearly collided with a truck behind me, breaking out in a cold sweat. From then on, I understood: the leftmost lane is often the designated overtaking lane on highways, but changing lanes to pass requires signaling, whether left or right. Without signaling, the driver behind has no clue you're about to move, which can trigger a chain reaction—sudden braking or swerving. Traffic laws spell it out clearly: when overtaking and changing position, you must signal for at least three seconds. Ignoring it could mean a fine of a couple hundred yuan at best, or full liability in an accident at worst. Now, I’ve made it a habit to signal early, check blind spots, and then accelerate smoothly to change lanes. This way, driving is both civilized and efficient, letting everyone stay at ease. Ultimately, lanes aren’t your territory—they’re shared space. Signals are silent communication, and skipping that small action isn’t worth the risk.
