It’s simple. It’s safety. It’s courtesy.
Signal lights are a universal language on the road. Using them helps drivers behind and beside you anticipate your next move. A lane change or turn without a signal can be a surprise for another driver, and that surprise can lead to a collision.
It’s the law in Manitoba
Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act requires drivers to signal clearly before any movement that could affect other vehicles. Drivers must give a continuous signal before turning, stopping suddenly, or changing lanes so others have time to react.
30 metres ahead
In the province, you should signal at least:
- 30 metres (half a hockey rink) before a turn in towns or cities, and
- 150 metres (~10 seconds before your turn) on rural highways.
This gives everyone around you time to adjust.
It’s not just about turns
You also signal when:
- Changing lanes.
- Merging into traffic.
- Exiting a roundabout or lane.
- Navigating your way around a parking lot.
When you signal, everyone (other drivers, shoppers, pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users) benefit.
Use your signal
It’s polite, it’s practical, and it prevents problems (and angry drivers!) on the road.