Which statement describes the correct practice for signaling before a lane change?

Which statement describes the correct practice for signaling before a lane change?

• A. Signal before changing lanes, then check mirrors and blind spots, and perform the move when safe.
• B. Signal only after you start the lane change.
• C. Signal after you have already moved into the lane.
• D. Do not signal if there is no traffic around.

Answer: (A)

Communicate your intent before you move. Signaling before changing lanes informs other drivers of what you plan to do and gives them time to adjust, which helps prevent surprises and collisions. The proper flow is: turn on the signal first, then check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to confirm the lane is clear, including the blind spots. If it’s safe, smoothly complete the lane change. If you wait to signal until after you start the maneuver, or after you’ve already moved into the new lane, you remove that crucial warning and increase the chance of a sudden, unsafe adjustment by others. Even when traffic seems light, signaling is still important because someone could be in your blind spot or approaching from behind, and you’re responsible for communicating your movements clearly.

Communicate your intent before you move. Signaling before changing lanes informs other drivers of what you plan to do and gives them time to adjust, which helps prevent surprises and collisions. The proper flow is: turn on the signal first, then check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to confirm the lane is clear, including the blind spots. If it’s safe, smoothly complete the lane change.

If you wait to signal until after you start the maneuver, or after you’ve already moved into the new lane, you remove that crucial warning and increase the chance of a sudden, unsafe adjustment by others. Even when traffic seems light, signaling is still important because someone could be in your blind spot or approaching from behind, and you’re responsible for communicating your movements clearly.