Improper Use of Turn

The law requires every driver to use their turn signal before turning or moving right or left on a roadway.  The law also requires that any signal of intention to turn right or left shall be given continuously during the last 100 feet before turning.

A driver must use turn signals to indicate their intent to turn, change lanes or start from a parked position.  You must not flash your turn signal on one side to indicate that your vehicle is parked or disabled.  You must also not flash your turn signal as an indication to cars traveling behind you to pass your vehicle.  Otherwise, you can be found guilty of improper use of turn signals.

Fines and Penalties

A driver who fails to use his or her turn indicators properly can be fined up to $150 in some states.

Traffic Points and Impact on Driving Record/License

Failure or improper use of turn indicators is a traffic infraction categorized as a moving violation.  In states that have the driver point system, this particular infraction will be assessed at either 2 or 3 points against your driver’s license.

Hiring a Lawyer

There may be times when turn signal bulbs burn out, or turn signal fuses go bad.  It’s possible that you did indeed use your turn indicator, but the officer was unable to see this due to his position.  Another defense may be that a vehicle merged into your lane and didn’t see you; therefore, you changed lanes abruptly without signaling in order to avoid an accident.  You may be able to present testimony to the court regarding mitigating factors that led you to commit the infraction and request a lesser offense.  An experienced traffic lawyer can help by evaluating your case in order to defend your actions.