How far in advance should you signal before turning?

Signaling at least 30 metres before turning is important for ensuring the safety of all road users. This distance provides adequate warning to other drivers and pedestrians of your intention to turn, allowing them time to react appropriately. It is crucial for maintaining smooth traffic flow and minimizing the risk of collisions. A distance of 30 metres helps convey your intentions clearly, particularly in urban areas where traffic may be closer together and more congested.

Shorter distances, such as 5 metres or even 10 to 20 metres, may not give others sufficient time to process your signal and adjust their behavior. This can create confusion and increase the potential for accidents. Signaling only when there are other vehicles around neglects the importance of communication on the road and can lead to dangerous situations, especially if pedestrians or cyclists are present. Hence, signaling well in advance is a key aspect of responsible driving.