Failing to Use Turn Signals Is a Leading Cause of Car Accidents
A driver who fails to use a turn signal puts everyone on the road at risk. Turn signals are a basic safety tool—they let other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians know where your vehicle is headed. When a driver suddenly turns or changes lanes without signaling, the people around them don’t have time to react. That split second can be the difference between a safe trip and a serious crash.
If you were injured because another driver didn’t use their turn signal, you may be able to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. An experienced car accident attorney can help you determine liability, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the financial recovery you deserve.
Why Using Turn Signals Matters
Turn signals communicate your next move. Whether you’re changing lanes, turning into a driveway, or navigating an intersection, signaling gives the drivers around you time to slow down, adjust their lane position, or stay clear.
Turn signals also protect pedestrians. In intersections and parking lots, a clear signal shows exactly where your vehicle is heading, helping pedestrians avoid stepping into your path.
When Drivers Are Required to Use Turn Signals
Florida Statute 316.155 requires drivers to signal before making any turn or lateral move on the roadway. The signal must be activated continuously for at least 100 feet before completing the maneuver. This gives surrounding drivers enough time to anticipate the movement and avoid a collision.
Common situations where turn signals are required include:
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Turning at an intersection
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Changing lanes
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Entering or exiting a highway
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Pulling into or out of a parking space
Accidents Caused by Failing to Use Turn Signals
Turning Without Signaling
When a driver slows down to turn without signaling, the vehicle behind them may not have enough time to stop—leading to a rear-end collision. A simple flashing signal would alert other drivers to prepare for the slowing vehicle.
Lane Changes Without Signaling
Lane changes happen constantly in traffic. But without a signal, the driver in the next lane has no warning and may be unable to brake or move safely. This kind of negligence often results in sideswipe crashes or multi-vehicle pileups.
Parking Lot Collisions
Parking lots are tight, busy spaces filled with cars and pedestrians. Failing to signal before turning into a space or reversing can cause crashes between drivers aiming for the same spot—or pedestrians who don’t realize a car is turning toward them.
Filing a Claim After a Turn-Signal Accident
If you suffered serious injuries because another driver didn’t use their turn signal, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. In Florida, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance will cover up to $10,000 in basic medical and lost wage benefits, but severe injuries can quickly exceed that limit.
A car accident lawyer can help you:
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Determine whether your injuries qualify for a claim outside the no-fault system
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Identify the at-fault driver and build a liability case
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Collect evidence, including footage, witness statements, crash reconstruction, and medical records
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Negotiate with the insurance company
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File a lawsuit if necessary
Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning ability, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Proving Liability for a Turn-Signal Accident
To succeed in a personal injury claim, you must show that the other driver’s failure to signal was negligent and directly caused your injuries. Every driver has a legal duty to operate their vehicle safely. Ignoring this duty—such as by failing to signal—can make them responsible for resulting damages.
Evidence that may support your claim includes:
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Traffic camera or dashcam footage
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Eyewitness accounts
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Police reports or citations
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Accident reconstruction findings
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Medical records linking the crash to your injuries
Get Help With Your Car Accident Case
Recovering after a crash can feel overwhelming—especially when medical bills, lost income, and insurance issues pile up. You don’t have to handle everything alone.
If you need strong legal support after a car accident caused by a driver who failed to use their turn signals, the Applebaum Accident Group is ready to help. Our team fights for injured clients throughout Michigan and is committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact Applebaum Accident Group today for a consultation(855-Call-Paul)
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