Do you need to indicate if you’re in a turn-only lane?
Picture this: you’re approaching a two-lane T-junction with traffic lights.
One lane is clearly marked with a left arrow and the other a right arrow. You’re planning to turn right.
Do you need to indicate when turning from the marked right-turn lane?
Below you’ll find three scenarios. See if you know when you need to indicate.
The intersections
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Why do drivers need to indicate in turn-only lanes?
While it may seem obvious which direction you’re heading, other drivers and road users such as pedestrians and cyclists, can’t always see the arrow markings on the road underneath your vehicle or signage you may have passed on the way.
To ensure the safety of all road users when turning at an intersection, you must indicate left or right for long enough to give sufficient warning to other road users.
What is a change of direction?
Despite no other turning options available in the above scenarios, because the driver is changing direction, indicating is required. The Australian Road Rules helpfully states that “A driver changes direction if the driver changes direction to the left or the driver changes direction to the right”.
The rules go on to clarify that turning left or right, changing lanes, making a U-turn, and pulling over to the side of the road are all examples of “changing direction”.
While there may be some instances where it doesn’t make a lot of difference if you indicate or not, having a blanket rule is less complicated than trying to define a handful of very specific exemptions.
So, remember, when it comes to indicating, there’s no cutting corners – even from a turn-only lane. Just flick your indicator on and everyone will be feeling fine.