Should the left turn signal be activated when overtaking?
2 Answers
When overtaking, the left turn signal should be activated. Overtaking should be performed from the left side of the vehicle ahead. After overtaking and maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, the right turn signal should be activated before returning 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 activate the left turn signal in advance, switch between high and low beams, or sound the horn. Here is relevant information about overtaking: On roads without a centerline or with only one motor vehicle lane in the same direction, when the leading vehicle receives an overtaking signal from the following vehicle, it should reduce speed and yield the right of way if conditions permit. The following vehicle should overtake from the left side of the leading vehicle after confirming there is sufficient safe distance, and after maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, activate the right turn signal before returning to the original lane.
I think using the left turn signal when overtaking is a very necessary habit when driving in China. Based on my years of driving experience, overtaking is usually completed in the fast lane on the left, and turning on the left signal can clearly tell the car behind that you are changing lanes to avoid blind spot accidents. Novices tend to forget this, but it becomes much safer once you develop the habit. For example, when overtaking on the highway, I always check the rearview mirror to confirm safety, turn on the left signal for three seconds before accelerating to overtake, and finally turn on the right signal to return to the original lane. The whole process keeps the signals clear, reduces unnecessary risks, and can also avoid fines. Remember, turn signals are not just a formality, they are the foundation of protecting yourself and others, especially when visibility is poor at night or in rainy weather.
