JPJ reminds drivers: signal before turning or changing lanes
JPJ reminds drivers to signal before turning or changing lanes
Using your turn signal before turning or changing lanes is a basic driving responsibility that helps prevent accidents on Malaysian roads. The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has reminded motorists that indicators are essential for communicating driving intentions, giving other road users time to react and making journeys safer.
In a reminder published on 14 October 2026, JPJ highlighted the importance of using indicators when changing lanes or turning. Drivers should signal early, check their mirrors, look over their shoulders to check blind spots and make sure the intended path is clear before moving.
Even when traffic appears light, drivers should never assume that other motorists can predict their next move. A simple indicator signal can help prevent confusion, sudden braking and dangerous
Key takeaways
Use your indicators: Signal before turning or changing lanes so other road users understand your intentions.
Check before moving: Inspect your mirrors, check blind spots and make sure the intended path is clear.
Signal early: Give nearby motorists enough time to react instead of indicating at the last moment.
Never assume others know your intentions: Other drivers cannot reliably predict your next move without a clear signal.
Make safety a habit: Combine proper signalling with careful observation and smooth driving.
Why is JPJ reminding drivers to use their indicators?
Indicators are a road-safety tool, not merely a vehicle feature. JPJ's reminder reinforces the importance of communicating intentions clearly whenever a driver turns or moves into another lane.
Without a signal, a vehicle changing lanes can surprise motorists travelling behind or alongside it. Other drivers may have little time to brake, slow down or adjust their positions, increasing the risk of a collision.
The responsibility applies to everyday driving. Whether navigating a busy city road, merging onto a highway or approaching a junction, motorists should indicate their intended movement and check that it is safe before proceeding.
How to use your turn signals correctly
1. Signal before turning
Activate the appropriate indicator before reaching a junction or making a turn. This gives other drivers, motorcyclists and nearby road users time to understand your intended direction.
2. Signal before changing lanes
Indicate before moving into another lane. Do not rely on the signal alone; check the traffic around you and confirm that there is enough space to move safely.
3. Check your mirrors and blind spots
Look at your rear-view and side mirrors, then check over your shoulder where appropriate. A vehicle or motorcycle may be in a position that is not visible in your mirrors.
4. Move only when the path is clear
After signalling and checking your surroundings, move smoothly when it is safe. If another vehicle is occupying the intended space, wait rather than forcing your way in.
What happens when drivers fail to signal?
Other road users may be unable to anticipate sudden movements. A driver who changes lanes without indicating can force another motorist to brake sharply or swerve to avoid a collision.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to unexpected lane changes. A motorcycle travelling alongside a car may be difficult to see, making mirror checks and blind-spot awareness especially important before moving across lanes.
Turning without signalling also creates confusion. Vehicles behind may expect a car to continue straight when the driver is actually preparing to turn. Pedestrians and cyclists can also be affected by unclear movements near junctions and crossings.
Using an indicator does not automatically make a manoeuvre safe or give a driver the right to move into an occupied lane. Drivers must still observe surrounding traffic and ensure that their actions do not endanger others.
Old driving habits vs safer driving habits
| Driving situation | Risky habit | Safer approach |
|---|---|---|
| Turning at a junction | Turning without indicating | Signal before turning and check for other road users |
| Changing lanes | Moving across immediately | Signal, check mirrors and blind spots, then move when safe |
| Driving beside motorcycles | Assuming the adjacent lane is clear | Check blind spots before moving |
| Heavy traffic | Forcing into a gap | Wait for a safe opportunity and avoid abrupt manoeuvres |
| Finishing a turn or lane change | Leaving the indicator on unnecessarily | Cancel the signal when the manoeuvre is complete |
The key difference is simple: communicate your intentions, observe your surroundings and move only when safe. No indicator can replace careful driving.
Expert tip: make signalling part of a driving routine
Use a consistent signal–mirror–blind-spot–move routine. Before changing lanes, indicate your intention, check your mirrors, check your blind spot and confirm that the gap is safe before moving smoothly.
Do not leave signalling until the vehicle is already moving across the lane marking. Equally, do not assume that indicating gives you priority over another vehicle. If the gap is unsafe, wait.
Common mistake: signalling while changing lanes
One mistake is switching on the indicator at the same time as moving into another lane. Although the signal is activated, other motorists may not have enough time to understand your intention and react safely.
The correct approach is to signal early enough to communicate your intention before moving. Then check your surroundings again and proceed only when the path is clear.
How Motorist App supports safer car ownership
The Motorist App is designed to help motorists manage their vehicle ownership needs. Although it does not replace the indicators, mirrors or safety checks required when driving, keeping track of vehicle-related responsibilities can help drivers stay organised.
| Feature | Traditional approach | Motorist App |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping track of vehicle related tasks | Rely on memory or personal notes | Manage relevant vehicle information in one place |
| Remembering ownership responsibilities | Check dates and records manually | Use available app features to help organise vehicle-related needs |
| Developing safe driving habits | Depend on personal routines | Continue practising essential habits such as signalling and checking blind spots |
Important: The Motorist App does not operate your vehicle's indicators or guarantee safer driving. Drivers must still follow safe driving practices and remain attentive to traffic conditions.
FAQs
1. Is it compulsory to use indicators when changing lanes in Malaysia?
JPJ reminds motorists to use their indicators when changing lanes and turning. Signalling communicates your intended movement to other road users and helps reduce confusion.
2. When should I turn on my indicator before changing lanes?
Signal before moving into another lane, allowing nearby road users time to react. Check your mirrors and blind spots, and move only when the path is clear.
3. Is using an indicator enough to change lanes safely?
No. An indicator communicates your intention but does not guarantee that the lane is clear or give you priority. You must check surrounding traffic before moving.
4. Do I need to signal when turning at a junction?
Yes. JPJ's reminder specifically covers turning. Use the appropriate indicator before turning and check for vehicles, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians.
5. Can I change lanes without signalling if there are no cars nearby?
You should still signal before changing lanes. Traffic conditions can change quickly, and other road users may be approaching from a position you have not noticed.
6. Why is changing lanes without signalling dangerous for motorcyclists?
Motorcyclists may be travelling alongside a car or within its blind spot. An unexpected lane change can leave them with little time or space to avoid a collision.
7. Should I check my blind spot even after checking my mirrors?
Yes. Mirrors do not always show every vehicle beside or behind your car. Check your blind spot before changing lanes, while remaining aware of the traffic ahead.
8. Does using an indicator mean other drivers must give way?
No. An indicator tells other road users what you intend to do; it does not automatically give you priority. You must ensure that your manoeuvre is safe before proceeding.
9. What should I do if another driver changes lanes without signalling?
Maintain a safe distance, avoid sudden reactions where possible and give the other driver room if necessary. Do not retaliate or attempt to block their vehicle.
10. Can the Motorist App replace safe driving practices?
No. The Motorist App supports vehicle ownership needs, but it cannot replace proper signalling, mirror checks, blind-spot checks or attentive driving.
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