Should I turn on the left turn signal when overtaking?
3 Answers
When overtaking, you should turn on the left turn signal. Overtaking should be done 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. Here are the relevant details about overtaking: 1. On roads without a center 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 should overtake from the left side of the vehicle in front after confirming there is sufficient safe distance. After maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, turn on the right turn signal and return to the original lane.
When overtaking, turning on the left turn signal is a must, as traffic rules clearly require this operation. Whether you're on a single-lane or multi-lane road, signaling left indicates your intention to change lanes to the left to pass the vehicle ahead. This isn't just about obeying the law—it significantly enhances safety. For example, it alerts vehicles behind you not to suddenly accelerate and lets the vehicle in front know your intentions, avoiding rear-end collisions or side scrapes. I've seen too many accidents caused by drivers overtaking without signaling, ranging from fines to severe chain-reaction crashes. After overtaking, remember to signal right to return to your original lane. Developing this habit can reduce the risk of accidents by 90%, applicable to both new and experienced drivers, especially crucial on highways where speeds are high. Practice this maneuver regularly while driving and ensure your turn signals are functioning properly.
From my personal driving experience, don't forget to use the left turn signal when overtaking. Once on an intercity road, I changed lanes to overtake without signaling and almost got sideswiped by a truck—it scared me so much my palms were sweating. Since then, I've made it a habit to always signal. It's not just about showing you're a responsible driver; it also lets other vehicles anticipate your moves. Overtaking isn't just about timing your acceleration right; you should signal left 2-3 seconds in advance, then signal right when returning to your original lane. I've noticed many drivers skip this step to save effort, which often worsens traffic congestion. Remembering this habit makes driving smoother, especially during peak hours in heavy traffic.
