When is it mandatory to use turn signals?

Using turn signals is mandatory whenever you make a turn or change lanes to communicate your intentions to other drivers and pedestrians. This practice is essential for promoting safety on the road by helping to ensure that everyone is aware of each other's movements. By signaling your intentions clearly and consistently, you reduce the risk of accidents and misunderstandings that can arise from abrupt lane changes or turns.

Signaling not only provides critical information to other road users but also fosters a more cooperative driving environment. It allows others to anticipate your actions, giving them the opportunity to react appropriately, whether by changing their speed or position on the roadway.

In situations where drivers neglect to use turn signals—such as only signaling in heavy traffic or based on personal discretion—they increase the likelihood of collisions and disrupt the flow of traffic. Therefore, understanding that signaling is required every time you turn or change lanes is fundamental to responsible driving and adhering to traffic laws.