Pennsylvania driving lesson · Space, Speed and Conditions
Signals, brake lights and your horn
A 3-minute lesson from the Pennsylvania course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Crashes often happen because one driver does something another doesn't expect. Tell other drivers where you are and what you plan to do, early and clearly. Pennsylvania sets exact distances for turn signals.
Know the rule
Your brake lights tell others you're slowing or stopping. If you'll brake where others may not expect it, quickly tap the brake pedal three or four times.
If you break down, signal, carefully leave the roadway and turn on your hazard flashers. Get as far off the road as possible where others can easily see you, and lift your hood to show you're disabled.
Use your horn when a driver or pedestrian doesn't see you, such as a child starting to run into the street or a vehicle about to hit you. Also sound it if you lose control of your vehicle.
You're driving 40 mph and plan to turn right into a shopping center. Turn on your signal at least 300 feet before the driveway; at 30 mph, 100 feet would be the minimum.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
How far before a turn must you signal if you are driving less than 35 mph?
At least 100 feet before turning
At least 300 feet before turning
At least 50 feet before turning
Signaling isn't required under 35 mph
Answer: At least 100 feet before turning
PA law requires signaling at least 100 feet before turning when driving under 35 mph.
Your car breaks down on the highway. After pulling as far off the road as possible and turning on your flashers, what else does the handbook say to do?
Lift your hood
Stand behind the car and wave traffic by
Leave your turn signal on
Turn on your high beams
Answer: Lift your hood
Park where others can see you easily and lift the hood to let drivers know your vehicle is disabled.
