It may seem obvious, but the importance of correctly utilizing your turn signal while on the road can’t be overstated. Turn indicators are an important means of communicating with others about where your car is headed. Failing to use turn signals causes many preventable accidents for unsuspecting victims who don’t realize that a driver is merging into a lane, turning onto a street, or going into a parking lot.
If you’ve been injured in an accident as a result of another driver failing to correctly use their turn signal, you may have the right to pursue a case for recovery. Drivers who violate the Pennsylvania turn signal laws may be seen as negligent in the eyes of the law, and as a result, they may be held liable for your injuries. Proving fault can be challenging, and it may be best to contact an experienced Montgomery County car accident injury lawyer as soon as possible for legal advice.
Why Turn Signals Are Necessary to Prevent Accidents in Pennsylvania
Drivers often underestimate the power of turn signals. They’re essential for letting drivers know the direction a car wants to go. Likewise, turn signals allow others to determine what they should be doing with their vehicle in relation to others on the road.
Here are four reasons why Pennsylvania turn signals are vital for the safety of drivers and pedestrians on the road:
- Pedestrian safety: Blinkers inform pedestrians that you’re turning and lets them decide whether they have enough time to finish crossing the street or whether they should keep from crossing into your blind spot
- Driver safety: Blinkers warn cars behind you of potential speed adjustments and movements. Without warning, other drivers may hit the brakes too late and collide with you.
- Traffic control: When you’re changing lanes, the use of your turn signal can warn other motorists that you need space to get over. This way, they can adjust their speed to make room for you.
- Rules of the road: Plain and simple, it’s the law!
Turn signal lights are standard in all motor vehicles for a reason. Much like brakes and rearview mirrors, turn signals are meant to prevent accidents. However, many drivers believe that using their blinkers is an option or a mere courtesy, which is perhaps why injuries are so common.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s Turn Signal Laws
No matter whether you’re driving on the road or walking on a crosswalk or sidewalk, it’s important to acknowledge Pennsylvania’s turn signal laws. Understanding your rights may help prevent further injuries for you and others. Pennsylvania Statute Title 75 Pa.C.S.A. Vehicles § 3334 breaks down the rules and regulations surrounding turn signals by the following terms:
“Upon a roadway no person shall turn a vehicle or move from one traffic lane to another or enter the traffic stream from a parked position unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety nor without giving an appropriate signal.”
Likewise, the statute breaks down additional rules related to turn signals:
- When you’re turning: When you’re traveling less than 35 miles per hour, an appropriate signal that indicates your intention to turn right or left must be given at least 100 feet prior to making your turn. For speeds in excess of 35 miles per hour, you must use your turn signal 300 feet prior to making your turn.
- When you enter a traffic stream: You’re required to use a turn signal before entering a traffic stream from a parked position.
- Limitations on the use of certain signals: If your turn signal isn’t working, you must hand signal your intention to turn.
- Discontinuing turn signals: Active turn signals must be discontinued immediately after completing the turn or movement from one traffic lane to another traffic lane.
When vehicles turn or merge without giving proper warning, cars around them have no way of knowing that they need to slow down, leave room, or stop to allow room. This is why turn signals are required by state law in order to prevent needless collisions.
Contact an Experienced Montgomery County Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury in a Pennsylvania car accident, reach out to an experienced Montgomery County car accident attorney as soon as possible. An expert lawyer may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve to reimburse you for your economic and non-economic losses. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, we understand how trying an injury can be, which is why we’re dedicated to making this process as easy as possible for you.
For over 65 years, our attorneys have been serving the legal needs of clients in Montgomery County, Bucks County, Lehigh County, Chester County, Delaware County, and throughout the surrounding areas. We’ve earned the trust and respect of clients facing a wide range of personal injuries. Call (215) 822-7575 or complete our online contact formtoday.
