When should a driver use turn signals?

Turn signals are an essential communication tool between drivers and others on the road. A driver should use turn signals whenever they change lanes or make a turn. This practice helps alert other road users—such as drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—about a driver's intended actions, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the risk of accidents. Proper signal use is crucial at all times, regardless of the time of day or traffic conditions, as it ensures clear communication about a driver's movements, allowing others to anticipate and react accordingly.

The other options suggest limited use of turn signals, which is contrary to safe driving practices. For example, only using turn signals during nighttime driving or in heavy traffic would not adequately inform other road users under normal conditions. Additionally, restricting signal use to residential areas ignores the necessity of signaling in all driving situations. Thus, consistently using turn signals whenever changing lanes or turning is fundamental for safe driving.