Why South Carolina Should Have Stronger Enforcement of Using Signals to Change Lanes and Turn

By Mark A Leon

Using turn signals when changing lanes or turning is a critical aspect of safe driving, and South Carolina law already mandates this practice under Section 56-5-2150 of the South Carolina Code. However, stricter enforcement and public awareness are necessary to ensure compliance. Here’s an analysis of why it should be emphasized as a state priority, along with the pros and cons.

Why Turn Signals Should Be a Priority

Turn signals are a simple yet essential communication tool on the road. They alert other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians of your intentions, reducing confusion and preventing accidents. According to South Carolina law, drivers must signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes. Despite this requirement, many drivers neglect to use their signals, leading to dangerous situations.

A study by the Society of Automotive Engineers found that failing to use turn signals causes around 2 million accidents annually in the U.S., surpassing distracted driving incidents. Enforcing turn signal laws more stringently in South Carolina could significantly reduce traffic collisions and improve road safety.

Pros of Mandatory Turn Signal Use

1. Enhanced Road Safety:

• Using turn signals provides clear communication to other road users, reducing the risk of collisions during lane changes or turns.

• It helps prevent rear-end accidents caused by sudden braking without warning.

2. Legal Clarity:

• Codifying and enforcing turn signal use ensures all drivers understand their responsibilities, creating consistency on the road.

3. Cost Savings:

• Fewer accidents mean lower costs for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and insurance premiums for drivers.

4. Improved Traffic Flow:

• Signaling intentions allows other drivers to adjust their speed or position, minimizing abrupt stops and congestion.

5. Pedestrian Safety:

• Turn signals help pedestrians anticipate vehicle movements, especially at intersections or crosswalks.

Cons of Mandatory Turn Signal Enforcement

1. Enforcement Challenges:

• Monitoring turn signal compliance can be difficult for law enforcement officers, particularly in high-traffic areas.

2. Driver Neglect:

• Some drivers may forget or fail to use their signals due to distraction or carelessness, making enforcement inconsistent.

3. Minimal Penalties:

• Current fines for failing to use turn signals in South Carolina are only $25 with no additional court costs or points on a driver’s record, which may not deter violations effectively.

4. Technological Reliance:

• Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles may reduce reliance on manual signaling, potentially leading to complacency among drivers.

Recommendations for Improvement

To ensure compliance with turn signal laws in South Carolina and maximize road safety benefits:

1. Increase Penalties: Raising fines and adding points to a driver’s record could act as a stronger deterrent.

2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating drivers about the importance of signaling through media campaigns can foster better habits.

3. Technology Integration: Encourage automakers to enhance ADAS features that remind drivers to use signals.

4. Targeted Enforcement: Focus law enforcement efforts on high-risk areas where failure to signal is common.

Conclusion

Making turn signal usage a state priority in South Carolina is essential for improving road safety and reducing accidents. While current laws mandate signaling before turning or changing lanes, stricter enforcement and public education are needed to ensure compliance. The benefits—ranging from enhanced safety to cost savings—far outweigh the challenges of implementation.