Situations at intersections often cause disputes among drivers. Many are convinced that if they are driving on a main road, they do not need to use a turn signal, even if their trajectory changes. However, the Rules of the Road (ROR) interpret this differently, and ignoring this rule can lead to an administrative fine.

RBC-Ukraine, citing current regulations, explains exactly when it is necessary to signal a turn and why the status of a "main road" does not exempt a driver from the obligation to warn other road users.

The myth of the "main road"

The main reason for confusion lies in the mixing of the concepts of "main road" and "driving straight." Drivers often think that turn signals are only needed when turning onto a secondary street. Others believe that a signal is always necessary. In fact, the key factor is not the priority of the road, but the change in the vehicle's direction of travel.

According to clause 9.2 of the ROR, a driver is obliged to signal with turn indicators before starting to move, changing lanes, turning, or making a U-turn. This means that if the vehicle's trajectory changes, a signal is necessary, regardless of which road you are on.

When is a turn signal mandatory?

Let's consider the two most common situations that cause confusion:

  • The main road turns. If the main road at an intersection changes direction, for example, turns right, and you continue driving along it, your vehicle is effectively making a turn. In this case, using a turn signal is mandatory.
  • Exiting onto a secondary road. The situation where the main road turns, but the driver decides to go straight, exiting onto a perpendicular street. Visually, the car is moving straight, but relative to the configuration of the intersection, it is leaving the main road and changing direction. Here, a turn signal is also necessary.

If the main road goes straight and you are driving along it without changing your trajectory, there is no need to signal.

Fine for violation

Ignoring the rules for using warning signals when changing the direction of travel is classified as an administrative offense. According to Part 2 of Article 122 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses (CUoAP), such a violation is punishable by a fine of 30 non-taxable minimum incomes of citizens.

As of today, the fine amount is 510 hryvnias. Therefore, when passing complex intersections, remember the simple rule: if the car turns, even while driving on the main road, you must turn on the turn signal. This is not only a legal requirement but also a way to warn other road users of your maneuver in advance, ensuring safety on the road.