CDL · Communicating

When should you use your turn signals on a commercial vehicle?

Correct answer

When changing direction, signaling well before the turn and canceling it after

  1. A When changing direction, signaling well before the turn and canceling it after
  2. B Briefly tap them just before turning so other drivers don't get confused
  3. C Only when other vehicles are visible behind you
  4. D Only when changing lanes on a highway

Why this is the answer

Signal any time you change direction: turning, changing lanes, pulling away from the curb, or pulling onto a highway from the shoulder. Signal well before the turn so other drivers have time to react — at highway speed this means at least three to five seconds before you begin the maneuver. Cancel the signal after the turn because a forgotten signal misleads other drivers into thinking you are about to turn when you are not. Brief or last-second signals provide no warning and are nearly as bad as no signal at all. Always signaling regardless of whether other vehicles are visible builds the habit so you never forget when it matters; you may not see every vehicle around you, especially in blind spots.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 2.5.1 Signal Your Intentions

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About this topic: Communicating

Other road users cannot read your mind. Turn signals, brake lights, headlights, and the horn are how you tell them what you are about to do — used correctly, they prevent crashes. This is one of 3 General Knowledge questions on communicating, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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