At what distance should you activate your turn signal before turning?

Activating your turn signal at least 100 feet before making a turn is essential for ensuring safety on the road. This distance provides adequate notice to drivers behind you and those approaching the intersection or roadway junction of your intention to turn. It allows them enough time to react appropriately by either slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing to stop if necessary. This practice is not only a matter of safety but is also often a legal requirement, as proper signaling helps to maintain the flow of traffic and reduces the risk of accidents.

The specified distance of 100 feet is designed to cover various traffic conditions and speeds, allowing for a safe adjustment of position by other road users. In urban areas, where speeds are typically lower, this distance gives ample time for vehicles to adjust. In situations where the speed limit is higher, it further ensures that the signal is seen, making your intentions clear to all nearby motorists. Hence, using your turn signal at this distance is a fundamental rule of safe driving, especially with larger vehicles like school buses, which require even more consideration due to their size and the presence of child passengers.