How far ahead should you signal before making a turn?

Signaling at least 100 feet before making a turn is important for ensuring safety on the road. This distance gives other drivers and pedestrians sufficient warning of your intentions, allowing them to react accordingly. Proper signaling helps to alert those around you to your upcoming maneuver, reducing the risk of collisions and promoting smoother traffic flow.

The 100-foot guideline is generally recognized as a standard practice that balances visibility and reaction time, enabling other road users to understand your planned actions. It allows drivers who may be behind you or approaching from the opposite direction enough time to adjust their speed or position if needed.

In contrast, signaling farther in advance, such as 150 or 200 feet, may be unnecessary unless you are in a high-speed zone or have specific road conditions that require additional caution. On the other hand, signaling only 50 feet before making a turn may not provide adequate warning for other drivers, potentially leading to unsafe situations. Proper signaling is a fundamental aspect of safe driving, and adhering to the recommended distance helps maintain order on the road.