Turning & Signals
Search names, statutes, classifications, penalties, points, and enforcement notes.
5 offenses
Failure to signal turn/lane change
Florida Statute § 316.155
A driver may turn or move right/left only when reasonably safe and must give an appropriate signal when another vehicle may be affected. A turn signal must continue through at least the last 100 feet before turning; a bicyclist may interrupt a hand signal when needed for control. Before stopping or suddenly slowing, signal a vehicle immediately behind when there is an opportunity. Document affected traffic, maneuver, signal use, and distance rather than assuming an absent signal alone resolves every case.
Improper turn at intersection
Florida Statute § 316.151
A right turn must approach and turn as close as practicable to the right curb/edge. A left turn must begin from the extreme left lane lawfully available and end in a lawful lane for the new direction. Traffic-control devices may prescribe another path. When overtaking a same-direction bicycle before turning right, signal and turn only when the bicycle is at least 20 feet from the intersection and the turn is safe. Document lane geometry, markings, and the actual path; bicycles have additional permitted left-turn methods.
Improper U-turn
Florida Statute § 316.1515
A U-turn is permitted only if it can be made safely, without interfering with other traffic, and is not prohibited by posted traffic-control signs. Identify the sign prohibition or the actual interference/safety problem. Do not treat every U-turn as illegal merely because it occurs at an intersection. A curve or hillcrest with restricted visibility may also invoke the separate 500-foot visibility rule in §316.152.
Turning on curve/crest of grade
Florida Statute § 316.152
A driver may not turn to reverse direction on a curve, or approaching or near a hillcrest, when the vehicle cannot be seen by a driver approaching from either direction within 500 feet. Document the reversing turn, the curve or grade, and the available sight distance in both directions. This provision is about a direction-reversing turn with restricted visibility, not every turn made on a curved roadway.
Unsafe start from parked position
Florida Statute § 316.154
A stopped, standing, or parked vehicle may begin moving only when the movement can be made with reasonable safety. Document the starting maneuver and the traffic, pedestrian, or other circumstances that made it unsafe, such as pulling into the path of a nearby vehicle. Starting from a parked position is not itself a violation; the unsafe circumstances are essential.