A 4-minute lesson from the Vermont course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Many crashes happen when a vehicle turns left, and most would not happen if the turn were made properly. Signaling early, setting up in the right spot and searching in the right order make your turns predictable and safe.
100 feet
The law requires you to signal not less than 100 feet before turning or changing lanes
Braking signals drivers behind you that you're slowing or stopping. If your turn signals or brake lights don't work, use hand signals, and get the lights fixed immediately.
Keep your wheels straight while waiting to turn left, so a hit from behind won't push you into oncoming traffic. Oncoming vehicles and bicyclists have the right-of-way, and you must yield to pedestrians crossing.
When turning onto a street with more than one lane in your direction, turn into the nearest lane. Then drive in the right lane unless you're passing or turning.
You want to turn left from a two-lane road. Signal 3 to 5 seconds ahead, slow down and move within a foot of the center line. Wait with your wheels straight until oncoming cars and bikes pass, then turn into the lane just right of the center line.
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 or lane change must Vermont law require you to signal?
Not less than 50 feet
Not less than 200 feet
Not less than 100 feet
Not less than 500 feet
Answer: Not less than 100 feet
Vermont law requires signaling not less than 100 feet before a turn or lane change.