When to Turn Off the Left Turn Signal During a Right-Angle Turn?
4 Answers
Generally, when a vehicle is making a right-angle turn, the turn signal should be activated before the turn. Once the turn is completed and the steering wheel is straightened, a 'click' sound will be heard, and the turn signal will automatically turn off without manual intervention. Here are some relevant details: 1. During the Category 2 driving test, which differs slightly from regular driving, the turn signal should be activated before the voice announcement instructs to start the right-angle turn. The signal should then be manually held in place until the turn is completed and the steering wheel is straightened. After driving straight for a short distance, the turn signal should be manually turned off. 2. It's important to note that during the Category 2 driving test, the turn signal must be manually activated and deactivated; automatic deactivation is not allowed. Additionally, the turn signal for a right-angle turn must not be turned off prematurely.
When I was learning to drive, the instructor always emphasized how to turn off the turn signal after a sharp left turn. I believe the correct approach is to turn it off immediately after completing the turn, specifically when the wheels are aligned with the road direction and the steering wheel is straightened. If you turn it off too early, drivers behind or beside you might think you're not turning, which could lead to a collision. If you turn it off too late, others might assume you're continuing to turn, causing confusion. I often encounter this situation while driving in the city, especially during traffic jams, where a delayed signal might result in honking or even a rear-end collision. Developing the habit of timely signal cancellation isn't just about following the rules—it's also for the safety of yourself and others. I remember the first time I drove on the highway; because I didn't turn off the signal immediately after the turn, I was almost squeezed by a truck, which gave me a cold sweat. Practice makes perfect—remember, the moment right after completing the turn is the golden time to cancel the signal. It helps avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and promotes road harmony.
After driving for so many years, I've become quite skilled at handling the left turn signal at right angles: I turn it off the moment the turn is completed. Since the car is now facing the new direction, there's no need to leave the signal on and cause confusion. Turning it off too early might confuse others into thinking you've abandoned the turn; turning it off too late can mislead other drivers, especially at high speeds or in blind spots, doubling the danger. Once, on a rainy day while turning, the signal's reflection shimmered in the water, and I turned it off half a second late, causing the car behind me to brake hard—it almost led to an accident. Since then, I manually reset the signal lever immediately after every turn. This small detail might seem minor, but it actually safeguards everyone's lives. Here's a tip: prepare to turn off the signal as you begin the turn, don't wait for the system to auto-reset, to avoid any delay.
Simply put, the best time to turn off the turn signal during a 90-degree left turn is immediately after the front of the car aligns with the new road. This way, you alert others to your turning intention without causing confusion. For example, when making a left turn on city roads, leaving the signal on after completing the turn may mislead the following car into thinking you're making another turn; turning it off too early might cause the car ahead to brake suddenly. It's recommended to turn off the signal when the steering wheel returns to the center position—it's both convenient and safe. Small habits can have big impacts; paying a little more attention can help reduce accidents.
