Do drivers have to use turn signals? Can you use flashers in rain? What Florida law says

Turn signals can seem optional on South Florida roads. That’s evident by the driver who just cut in front of you on the highway without warning.

The reasons?

“I forgot.” “That’s still a thing?” “The lane was clear, why bother?” “I’m at the light in the left turn lane, so where else could I be going?” “If I signal my intentions, the jerk behind me speeds up to block me.”

Excuses, excuses.

So, is there a Florida law that requires you to use your turn signals to let fellow drivers know what you are about to do?

KNOW MORE: Does Florida have an age limit for driving? What the law says about taking the wheel

What does the law say?

According to Florida statutes, the proper use of turn signals is required and you can be fined if you don’t use them.

Here’s what to know:

▪ Practice reasonable safety. “No person may turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left on a highway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety — and then only after giving an appropriate signal in the event any other vehicle may be affected by the movement.”

▪ Do it already. “A signal of intention to turn right or left must be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning,” the state says. Don’t just stop or suddenly slow down without first giving an appropriate signal for the drivers of any cars immediately behind you. Giving a signal may help you avoid getting rear-ended.

▪ No confusing smoke signals. Use your car’s turn signals to let others know you wish to turn or to move over to overtake or pass another car. Don’t use them as instructional beacons to share messages to other drivers. For instance, you’re stopped or disabled and you want to tell those behind you to move to the next lane so you figure on flashing your signal in the direction you want others to take. Or as a signal to say something like: “I see you racing up behind me. I’m going to turn on my left or right turn signal now as a directive to you to move into the other lane I’m pointing at. I’m not moving or turning, so you do so.”

▪ What could a violation cost you? Failure to properly use a turn signal could be considered a noncriminal traffic infraction, a moving violation. That could result in a fine of no more than $150. But the ticket could also yield three points placed on your license. Points on a license will almost assuredly raise your insurance cost. Traffic school class could also be assigned, according to Umansky, an Orlando law firm that offers criminal defense and personal injury attorneys.

▪ Hand signals are permitted. Drivers can signal a left or right turn by properly extending their left arm out the driver’s side window for at least the last 100 feet traveled before turning. If you’ve forgotten what the signals are, here’s a reminder from the American Safety Council: To indicate a left turn, stick your left arm out the window and hold it straight out. To indicate a right turn stick your left arm out the window and bend it up, pointing to the sky. To indicate stopping or slowing if your brake lights are not working, stick your left arm out the window and bend it down toward the ground. (The exception: Bicyclists don’t have to extend the arm continuously for at least 100 feet if they need both arms to properly maintain control of the bike.)

MORE: You’re warned, Florida cops say. Now you can be fined for speeding next to disabled cars

Using flashers when it’s raining

Florida passed a law earlier this year allowing drivers to flash their blinkers in a rainstorm — but with a condition: “During periods of extremely low visibility on roadways with a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour or higher,” according to the statute.

This story was originally published September 25, 2024 at 9:38 AM.

Howard Cohen

Miami Herald

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Miami Herald consumer trends reporter Howard Cohen, a 2017 Media Excellence Awards winner, has covered pop music, theater, health and fitness, obituaries, municipal government, breaking news and general assignment. He started his career in the Features department at the Miami Herald in 1991. Cohen is an adjunct professor at the University of Miami School of Communication. Support my work with a digital subscription