Should the left turn signal be kept on when overtaking on the highway?

[FaithMarie]

Highway overtaking requires keeping the left turn signal on. Below are specific instructions for highway driving: 1. Check the vehicle before entering the highway: Inspect the car's braking system and tire pressure/wear before driving on the highway to avoid emergency braking failure. Both underinflated and overinflated tires are unsuitable for high-speed driving and can easily lead to blowouts. 2. Fasten seat belts: Seat belts should be worn whether driving on regular roads or highways, and rear passengers must also buckle up during high-speed driving. 3. Drive in designated lanes: Highway lanes are clearly marked with dedicated lanes for large vehicles, small vehicles, etc. When overtaking and temporarily occupying another lane, promptly return to your original lane after completing the maneuver without prolonged occupation of other lanes.

[VonAlan]

When I first started learning to drive, I was also a bit confused about the rules for overtaking. Now I understand much better. On the highway, you definitely need to turn on the left turn signal to let others know 'I'm going to overtake'—it's a basic safety practice. Keeping the signal on continuously isn’t necessary; usually, you turn it on a few seconds before preparing to overtake, and then turn it off or switch to the right signal once you’ve completely passed the other vehicle and safely returned to your lane. If the signal stays on, the car behind might think you still intend to overtake or that there’s an issue with your operation, which could lead to misunderstandings. Personally, I always signal 30–50 meters in advance, make sure no car is approaching from behind, and then proceed, avoiding sudden acceleration or erratic movements. On the highway, visibility is good but speeds are high, so developing this habit not only reduces accidents but also makes others trust your driving more. Don’t forget to check if your signals are working properly and maintain them regularly.

[DiHarmony]

Having driven for over 20 years, I've witnessed many misunderstandings during overtaking scenarios. It's crucial to signal with the left turn indicator when overtaking on highways, but keeping it on continuously isn't necessary. The correct approach is to activate the signal well before overtaking, ensuring both the vehicle being overtaken and those behind can clearly see your intention. Once you've completed the maneuver and returned to your lane, promptly turn off the signal. Keeping it on unnecessarily may make you appear inexperienced with traffic rules or could mislead navigation systems on curves. My habit is to glance at the rearview mirror before overtaking to confirm a safe distance before executing the move. This process combines judgment and reflexes – high-speed driving carries significant risks where any minor oversight could lead to rear-end collisions or side impacts. Additionally, extra caution is required during rainy or foggy conditions when light visibility decreases, demanding heightened awareness. Remember this simple sequence: signal – overtake – reposition – cancel signal.

[SkylarAnn]

The core of safe driving lies in predictability and communication. When overtaking on highways, activating the left turn signal is essential—it clearly communicates to other vehicles 'I'm passing from the left,' preventing sudden lane-change accidents. However, the signal shouldn't remain on indefinitely; typically, it should stay activated until the overtaking maneuver is nearly complete, then be turned off or switched to the right signal when returning to the original lane. Keeping the signal on continuously may confuse trailing drivers, making them think you intend to change lanes permanently, thereby increasing the risk of fatigue-induced misjudgment. I believe timing is the most critical factor: activate the signal a few seconds in advance, confirm no vehicles are approaching, then execute the maneuver. On highways where speeds often exceed 100 km/h, reaction times are short, so turn signals serve to reduce uncertainty. Combined with maintaining proper following distance and monitoring road conditions, these habits significantly enhance safety.