Should You Use Turn Signals When Turning?

[IsabelLynn]

Vehicles must use turn signals when turning. Using turn signals when turning is a fundamental safety and courteous driving practice for motor vehicles. According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," failure to use turn signals when turning will result in a 1-point penalty on the driver's license and a corresponding fine. Motor vehicles must use turn signals when turning, overtaking, or changing lanes. The legal basis includes: Article 47 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": "When overtaking, motor vehicles shall turn on the left turn signal in advance, switch between high and low beams, or sound the horn." Article 51, Item 3 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": When passing through an intersection controlled by traffic signals, motor vehicles shall proceed as follows: When turning left, turn from the left side near the center of the intersection. Turn on the turn signal when turning, and use low beams when driving at night. Article 57, Items 1 and 2 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Motor vehicles shall use turn signals as follows: When turning left, changing lanes to the left, preparing to overtake, leaving a parking spot, or making a U-turn, the left turn signal shall be turned on in advance. When turning right, changing lanes to the right, returning to the original lane after overtaking, or parking by the roadside, the right turn signal shall be turned on in advance. Failure to use turn signals as required may result in a fine of 20-200 yuan and a 1-point deduction on the driver's license. The following are the legal bases for fines and point deductions: Article 90 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": If a motor vehicle driver violates the road traffic safety laws or regulations regarding road usage, they shall be given a warning or fined between 20 and 200 yuan. If this law provides otherwise, the relevant provisions shall apply. Four key points about turn signals: How to use turn signals: The turn signal button is usually located on the lever below the steering wheel. To operate it, push the lever up for the right turn signal and down for the left turn signal. Turn signals must be used when changing lanes or turning. The use of turn signals in the driving test (Subject 2): Turn signals are required in three parts of Subject 2—starting the vehicle, making a 90-degree turn, and parallel parking. When starting the vehicle, turn on the left turn signal before slowly moving. When exiting a parallel parking spot, turn on the left turn signal before turning left. When making a 90-degree turn, the turn signal must be activated before turning. The use of turn signals in the driving test (Subject 3): In Subject 3, turn signals are used in more scenarios, such as starting, changing lanes, overtaking, turning, making a U-turn, and parking. Generally, turn signals must be used whenever the vehicle's direction changes, and they should be activated for at least three seconds. Some drivers struggle with timing the turn signals correctly, using the wrong direction, activating them for too short or too long, forgetting to turn them off, or dealing with automatic signal cancellation. Drivers should note that, in addition to the 1-point penalty for improper use of turn signals, other violations that result in a 1-point deduction include improper meeting of vehicles, exceeding the allowed dimensions for cargo, driving without displaying inspection and insurance labels, and failing to carry a driver's license or vehicle registration. How to correctly operate turn signals: When overtaking, first turn on the left turn signal, then the right turn signal after completing the maneuver. When entering a highway, use the left turn signal, but when exiting, use the right turn signal. No signal is needed when entering a roundabout, but the right turn signal must be used when exiting. When parking by the roadside, use the right turn signal; when leaving the roadside, use the left turn signal. For U-turns, usually the left turn signal is used. When changing lanes to the left, use the left turn signal, and when changing lanes to the right, use the right turn signal. Always activate the turn signal in advance to give other drivers time to react.

[Sam]

As a veteran driver with over 30 years of experience, I can confidently say that using turn signals is absolutely essential for safety. On the road, if you suddenly turn without signaling, vehicles behind you won't have enough time to react, which can easily lead to rear-end collisions or crashes. Especially at night or during rainy/foggy conditions when visibility is poor, turn signals are the only way to clearly communicate your intentions to other drivers. I've personally witnessed accidents caused by failure to signal, with devastating consequences. Giving others a few seconds' warning by activating your turn signal can significantly reduce risks. This isn't overreacting - it's about taking responsibility for lives. I've made it a habit to always check if my signals are working before turning, ensuring everything goes smoothly. Remember, safe driving is built upon attention to detail - every small action can save lives. During bad weather conditions, being extra cautious is crucial, and turn signals can help you avoid many potential hazards.