Can you get a ticket in SC for failing to signal a turn? Here’s what state law says

Let’s just say you’re driving along a four-lane highway and want to pass the car in front of you.

No one is behind or beside. Surely it’s OK to just slip past.

UM. No.

South Carolina law requires you must use your turn signal no matter the circumstances.

And if you’re turning onto another road, the law says the signal must be on continuously. For at least 100 feet. No signaling as you make the turn.

Hand turn signals may be a thing of the past for many, but South Carolina law says you may use them if for some reason your blinker is broken.

Not only that but the same statute says you can’t stop or suddenly decrease your speed without giving a signal.

The law doesn’t specify what the signal is, but it is surely not something rude to express your frustration with the person tailgating you or the slowpoke ahead.

Here’s the one-side only part of the statute.

“The signals required on vehicles by subsection (B) of Section 56-5-2180, 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.”

Violations of this statute bring a $25 fine, low compared to California where the fine can be up to $238.

New York is even harsher. First offense up to $150, second offense within 18 months up to $300, third offense within 18 months up to $450.

Plus a finding of guilt brings two points on your license. Each time. Plus surcharges, which are up to $93.

Wonder if they had a problem with serial signal violators?

South Carolina does not assess court costs, surcharges, or points.