How far in advance should a driver signal before making a turn?

A driver should signal at least 150 feet before making a turn to alert other road users of their intended action. This distance provides enough time for other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to understand your intentions, thereby enhancing safety on the road. Signaling in advance is a critical part of defensive driving, as it helps prevent accidents by ensuring that everyone in the vicinity is aware of your movements.

Waiting until just before the turn or signaling only if other vehicles are present could lead to confusion or dangerous situations, as other drivers may not anticipate the turn in time. Additionally, neglecting to signal entirely can result in miscommunication with other road users, increasing the risk of collisions. Overall, signaling well in advance fosters safe driving practices and helps maintain a smooth flow of traffic.