How far in advance should you signal before turning or changing lanes?

You should signal your intentions to turn or change lanes well in advance to ensure that other drivers can react accordingly. The recommended time frame to signal your intention is 3 to 4 seconds or about 100 feet before making the turn or lane change. This distance allows other drivers enough time to notice your signal and adjust their speed or position if necessary, promoting safety and reducing the chances of accidents.

Proper signaling contributes to smooth traffic flow and enhances overall road safety. If you signal only when you are directly at the turn or just a moment before changing lanes, it may not give other drivers adequate time to respond, potentially leading to dangerous situations. Moreover, signaling for 5 to 6 seconds or 200 feet may be excessive in many driving situations, making it impractical for typical urban driving where space is limited. Thus, the 3 to 4-second guideline strikes a suitable balance between safety and practicality.