How many feet ahead should you signal before planning to turn?

Signaling ahead of making a turn is crucial for safe driving, as it communicates your intentions to other drivers and pedestrians. In Michigan, the recommended distance to signal before making a turn is at least 100 feet. This distance provides adequate time for vehicles and pedestrians around you to be aware of your intentions and to adjust their actions accordingly, enhancing overall roadway safety.

A signal distance of 100 feet allows drivers following you to recognize your upcoming maneuver and react appropriately, whether that means slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing to stop. This is particularly important in busy urban environments where a sudden turn could lead to accidents if other drivers are not given enough warning.

While shorter distances like 50 feet might be considered insufficient for reaction time, and longer distances like 150 or 200 feet may be excessive in many situations, the 100-foot guideline strikes a balance, ensuring clarity and safety on the road.