If a vehicle approaching you is signaling a left turn, what should you be ready to do?

When a vehicle approaching you is signaling a left turn, it is important to be prepared for several potential actions. Being ready means assessing the situation carefully and responding appropriately to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Ignoring the signal is unwise, as the driver may indeed execute the turn, which could lead to a collision if you are not prepared to adjust your own movement. Similarly, speeding up to pass the vehicle quickly could put you in a dangerous situation, especially if the driver turns unexpectedly or misjudges the timing of the turn. Therefore, it's crucial to remain alert and ready to react.

In this scenario, making a right-hand turn may also be a viable option if you believe it is safe to do so. This maneuver allows you to avoid potential conflict with the turning vehicle while adhering to traffic laws. Preparedness to make a right turn—or to take other evasive actions—as appropriate showcases defensive riding and enhances your ability to navigate complex traffic situations safely.

Overall, the best approach is to remain cautious and ready to adapt your actions based on the behavior of the other vehicle and the context of the roadway.