Ohio Turn Signal Law
Many motorists may question whether there is a law regarding turn signals, or if they are considered a common courtesy. We wanted to straighten up the confusion and answer this common legal questions.
The Ohio Revised Code 4511.39 Turn and stop signals, states that no motorist can turn a vehicle right or left on the roadway until they have exercised care and ascertain that the turn of their vehicle can be made safely. This means that they must use their turn signal to notify other drivers on the roadway of the movement that their vehicle will be making.
The turn signal must be used during at least the last one-hundred feet traveled before making the turn. The speed of a vehicle cannot suddenly decrease or stop without the appropriate signal being used by the motorist first.
The turn signal must also be given to both the traffic in front of the vehicle and behind it (front and rear lights).
If a motorist fails to use a turn signal, violating this section of the Ohio Revised Code, they are guilty of a minor misdemeanor.
If the motorist has plead guilty within one year to another predicate traffic offense, they would be guilty of a minor misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If they were guilty of two or more predicate traffic offenses within one year, they would face a minor misdemeanor of the third degree.
Our law office recommends the use of turn signals at all times. It does not matter if you are on a road with little to no traffic and there are no cars near you, it is imperative to be in the habit of using turn signals at all times. They are essential to your safety and the safety of others on the roadway.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident in which another driver failed to use their turn signal, causing the accident, call our Ohio car accident attorneys at 800.637.8170. We can answer any questions that you may have, as well as give you a free case evaluation over the phone.