Saskatchewan Driver Education GDL Class 7 Learner Practice Test

What is a common indicator that a vehicle is about to turn?

1. Use of headlights

2. Activating the turn signal

3. Honking the horn

4. Slowing down

The correct answer is: Activating the turn signal

Activating the turn signal is a common and widely recognized indicator that a vehicle is preparing to turn. Turn signals serve the essential purpose of communicating a driver's intentions to other road users, thereby enhancing safety for everyone on the road. When a driver engages their turn signal, it alerts nearby vehicles and pedestrians to expect a change in the vehicle’s path, allowing them to react appropriately. This practice is not only a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including Saskatchewan, but it also promotes better traffic flow and reduces the likelihood of collisions. Other actions, such as using headlights or honking the horn, are not direct indicators of a turn. While headlights are used for visibility, especially in low-light conditions, they do not convey turning intentions. Similarly, honking the horn can be used to communicate a variety of messages, primarily warnings or alerts, but it does not specifically indicate that a vehicle is about to change direction. Slowing down can sometimes signal a turn as well, but it is not as definitive as the use of turn signals, which explicitly show the driver’s intention to turn left or right. Therefore, properly using turn signals is crucial for safe driving practices and effective communication on the road.