What are the penalties for not using turn signals as required?
3 Answers
According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, motor vehicles driving on the road without using lights as required by relevant regulations will be penalized with a deduction of 1 point, and the penalty will be imposed directly. Generally, violations involving improper use of lights by motor vehicles are handled on the spot and are not recorded through photography. Motor vehicle drivers committing any of the following violations will be penalized with a deduction of 1 point: 1. Driving a motor vehicle without using lights as required; 2. Driving a motor vehicle without meeting oncoming vehicles as required; 3. Driving a motor vehicle carrying cargo that exceeds the prescribed length, width, or height; 4. Driving a motor vehicle on the road without displaying the inspection compliance mark or insurance mark, or without carrying the vehicle license or motor vehicle driving license.
A few days ago, I forgot to turn on my turn signal when making a right turn while driving, and was immediately pulled over by a traffic officer. I was fined 200 yuan and had 2 points deducted from my driver's license. The fine isn't huge but it's quite annoying, and worse, if an accident had occurred because of this, the responsibility would have been entirely mine, with insurance claims potentially reduced or even denied. Many of my friends have also suffered similar consequences—some almost caused rear-end collisions on the highway due to not signaling, and later, after reviewing surveillance footage, were additionally penalized with mandatory learning hours. In fact, traffic regulations clearly state that failing to use turn signals on urban roads can result in fines ranging from 100 to 500 yuan, with 1-2 points deducted, depending on the locality. For example, enforcement is stricter in Beijing. Using turn signals isn't just a rule; it's a safety habit that helps indicate your direction in advance, allowing other vehicles or pedestrians to react and reducing blind-spot risks. Developing this habit is simple: remind yourself to flick the switch a few seconds before every lane change or turn, and over time, it will become second nature.
When I first got my driver's license, I was extremely nervous and often forgot to use turn signals when making turns. I was fined twice, 150 yuan each time with 2 points deducted, and had to attend traffic regulation remedial classes. The penalties weren't severe, but as a beginner, it really shook my confidence. Now when driving, I force myself to check the lights before every lane change. In fact, this violation can double the risk of accidents, especially during rainy days or at night when visibility is poor, as others can't anticipate your movements. Accumulating too many penalty points also affects license review – for example, if all 12 points are deducted, you'll have to retake the test. New drivers should be especially careful not to be lazy; even on empty roads, insist on practicing turn signal usage, because safety always comes first.
