Turn Signal Timing
Gone Nuts: Why We’re Obsessed with Walnuts
June 11, 2025
Turn Signal Timing
Turn signals are your car’s way of talking to other drivers, letting them know your next move. But timing them right can be tricky. As someone who has driven from quieter roads to today’s chaos of eating and streaming while driving, I know late signaling can cause a mess. My rule? I always flick on my turn signal before I brake. It gives drivers behind me the heads-up that I am planning to slow down or turn, reducing surprises. So, when is the best time to start your turn signal? I am Dr. Aaron Workman of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical care organizations in Kentucky, and I will break it down with what the law says, why signaling matters, and how it cuts down on crashes and injuries.
Why Signal Before Braking?
With a new driver in the family, signaling before braking is non-negotiable. It can take the guess work out of when to turn the signal on. All you got to do is signal first, then brake. It is a habit that has saved me from close calls, especially in heavy traffic. By signaling early, you warn drivers behind you that you are about to slow down or turn, giving them time to react. Braking first and signaling later defeats the purpose. In a perfect world, everyone is alert, but today, you practically need an air horn to get attention. Late signaling confuses drivers behind you, while early signaling keeps traffic smooth and avoids sudden stops.
What the Law Says
Most U.S. states require you to signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes, roughly 3-5 seconds at city speeds. In the state of Kentucky the law states, “A signal indicating the intention to turn right or left shall be given continuously for not less than the last one hundred (100) feet traveled by the motor vehicle before the turn.” On highways, signaling even earlier is safer due to higher speeds. The fine for this offense in Kentucky ranges from $20 to $100 for each violation. Additionally, it is considered a moving violation, which may add 3 points to your driving record under Kentucky’s point system. If you accumulate too many points (12 within two years), your license could be suspended.
Results of Poor Signaling
Poor signaling causes crashes. Nearly 2 million U.S. accidents yearly are linked to turn signal neglect, more than distracted driving crashes, per the Society of Automotive Engineers. About 48% of drivers skip signals for lane changes, and 25% for turns, leading to confusion and collisions. Rear-end crashes, related to late or missing signals, account for 29% of U.S. accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (2007). Signaling early, especially before braking, could prevent many of these collisions.
Injuries from Rear-End Collisions
As an MVA clinic professional, I have seen how rear-end accidents change lives. They cause 7-8% of crash fatalities. Whiplash, neck, and back injuries are common, even at low speeds, from the sudden jolt. Severe cases bring broken ribs or traumatic brain injuries due to the force of the abrupt stop. My habit of signaling before braking reduces these risks by giving others a clear heads-up.
The best time to start your turn signal is 3-5 seconds, or 100 feet, before you brake or turn, aligning with laws and safety. I signal before braking to avoid catching drivers off guard, a trick that has kept my bumper intact. Use signals for every turn, lane change, or merge, even if the road seems empty. Check mirrors and blind spots before acting because signaling does not mean right-of-way. If you have been in a rear-end crash by someone who is bad signaling and find yourself injured, then a top-rated clinic like Chambers Medical Group can help. With nearly 2 million crashes tied to poor signaling, flicking that lever early can save lives and spare you a literal headache.
— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.
