Texas Defensive Driving Turn Signals

Using your turn Signals for Defensive Driving in Texas

As stated by the Texas Transportation Code, a driver must use his or her vehicle’s turn signals to indicate his or her intention to turn, change lanes, or to enter the roadway from a parked position. If you don't use your turn signals you will find yourself taking a Texas Defensive Driving Class due to a ticket.

A Texas driver who intends to turn must signal continuously for at least 100 feet before the turn. A driver cannot turn on their turn signals on just one side of his or her vehicle when the vehicle is parked or disabled. Also, a driver cannot use his or her turn signals as a courtesy or “do pass” signal to other drivers approaching from behind.

In the event that a vehicle's turn signals are not operational, a Texas driver may signal his or her intention to turn by positioning his or her arm outside the driver's side window in the appropriate form and position. To indicate the intention to turn left using your hand and arm, extend your hand and arm horizontally out of the driver's side window. To indicate the intention to turn right, extend your hand and arm upward. To stop or slow down, extend your arm downward.

Get a ticket for not using your turn signals in Texas? Visit our Texas Traffic Ticket Defensive Driving Course to see how you can get your ticket dismissed today!