When changing lanes on a freeway, how long should you signal prior to making the change?

Signaling when changing lanes on a freeway is crucial for ensuring the safety of both yourself and other drivers. The requirement to signal for at least five seconds provides ample time for other motorists to notice your intention to change lanes. This timeframe allows you to clearly communicate your movement and helps to reduce potential accidents caused by sudden lane changes.

Proper signaling for the recommended duration ensures that trailing vehicles and those in adjacent lanes are adequately informed, minimizing surprises on the roadway. Five seconds is a benchmark that strikes a balance between being aware of your surroundings and allowing for other drivers to react appropriately.

Shorter signaling times may not give enough warning to other drivers, increasing the risk of collisions as they might not anticipate your maneuver in time. On the other hand, signaling for durations longer than five seconds could lead to confusion without offering substantial additional safety benefits. Thus, five seconds is an effective standard to follow for lane changes, promoting a safer driving environment on the freeway.