Delaware Driver Education State Practice Test

When should you activate your turn signals before making a turn?

1. 100 feet before the turn

2. 200 feet before the turn

3. 300 feet before the turn

4. 400 feet before the turn

The correct answer is: 300 feet before the turn

Activating your turn signals 300 feet before making a turn is the recommended practice for ensuring that other drivers and pedestrians are aware of your intentions. This distance provides ample time for others to react to your upcoming maneuver. It helps to promote safety by giving following vehicles enough warning to adjust their speed or position accordingly, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. Using your turn signals in a timely manner is a critical part of safe driving; it communicates to others on the road that you're preparing to change direction. This is especially important in busy areas or when driving at higher speeds, where even a brief delay in signaling could lead to confusion or unsafe situations. The other distances listed are inadequate because they may not provide enough time for those around you to respond effectively. Using a signal too late can lead to miscommunication and potential hazards. Maintaining a standard distance of 300 feet strikes an effective balance between being early enough to alert others without being excessively premature, ensuring the flow of traffic remains smooth and safe.