What requirement exists for signaling before making a turn?

When making a turn, it is important to signal your intention to other road users, and the law typically requires that you signal for a specific duration before executing the turn. Signaling for at least five seconds is usually considered a standard practice, as this time frame allows other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to be aware of your intentions well in advance. This advance notice helps to promote safety and prevents accidents by ensuring that everyone on the road has adequate time to react to your maneuver.

Additionally, signaling only when there are other vehicles around does not account for all potential road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, who may also need to be aware of your actions. Failing to signal or not signaling for a sufficient amount of time can lead to confusion and potentially dangerous situations on the road. Traffic laws emphasize the importance of consistent signaling to encourage safe driving practices.