When should you signal before making a turn?

Signaling before making a turn is an important aspect of safe driving, and the correct practice is to signal at least 100 feet before the turn. This advance warning gives other drivers and pedestrians the opportunity to anticipate your actions, contributing to a safer driving environment. By signaling early, you help to ensure that anyone around you can react appropriately to your intention to turn, whether that means adjusting their speed or changing lanes.

In contrast, signaling only in heavy traffic does not accommodate situations where fewer vehicles might still require knowledge of your turning intentions. Waiting until immediately at the turn significantly reduces the time other road users have to react, leading to unsafe conditions. Signaling only when pedestrians are present overlooks the responsibility of notifying other drivers of your intended maneuver, as they might not be aware of pedestrians crossing. Therefore, the most effective practice is to signal well in advance of the turn to maintain safety for all road users.