How far ahead should you signal before making a turn?

Signaling at least 100 feet before making a turn is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users. This distance provides ample time for other drivers and pedestrians to become aware of your intention to turn. When you signal well in advance, it gives those around you the opportunity to react appropriately, whether that means slowing down, maintaining distance, or preparing to navigate around you.

Implementing this practice helps to reduce misunderstandings and potential accidents since it communicates your actions clearly to other drivers. Additionally, it is in line with many state's traffic laws that specify a minimum signaling distance, ensuring that everyone is adhering to safe driving standards.

While signaling too late may cause confusion or lead to abrupt maneuvers, signaling too early beyond the recommended distance can sometimes mislead drivers into thinking you are preparing to turn sooner than you actually are, particularly in busy or complex traffic situations. Therefore, adopting the 100-foot rule strikes a practical balance between clarity and safety on the road.