Wait… It’s Illegal to Use Your Turn Signal When Doing THIS in WA?

The amount of people who don't use their turn signal in Yakima is too high.

You probably see it daily and, let's face it, you've probably done it a few times yourself, where you just forget to use your turn signal.

When Yakima Should Use Turn Signals in Town

When changing lanes or turning down a side road, you must use your turn signal. It's in the driver's written test, it's something they'll look for on the driving test, it's something most know. If you turn or change lanes you have to use your turn signal.

But is there ever a time when you shouldn't use your turn signal?

As it turns out, yes.

Not just something you shouldn't do, but it's illegal to do and could get you pulled over and maybe even fined.

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Related: Washington Top 5 States for Worst Driving Habits

When It's Illegal to Use a Turn Signal in WA

This is from Washington State Legislature RCW 46.61.305 when it comes to using your turn signal.

The signals provided for in RCW 46.61.310 subsection (2), shall not be flashed on one side only on a disabled vehicle, flashed as a courtesy or "do pass" signal to operators of other vehicles approaching from the rear, nor be flashed on one side only of a parked vehicle except as may be necessary for compliance with this section.

You might see this when going uphill like if you're heading to Ellensburg just outside of Selah.

A big semi or U-Haul or something that's going under the speed limit but has that turn signal on as if that's their way of telling you to go around them.

Read More: Can You Keep a Cow as a Pet in Washington?

Turn Signals Causing Mixed Signals

The problem is it sends mixed messages as with that turn signal on, that means you're implying you're going to change lanes, when, in fact, it's the opposite.

The smart drivers will have their hazards on for slower-moving oversized vehicles which is perfectly fine. Just make sure both tail lights are working.