Sound, Light & Turn Signals

Sound Warning Signals

• Drivers must use sound warning signals when traffic safety necessitates it.
• The signal is used outside settlements to warn of intended overtaking or passing to prevent accidents.
• It is also used if a child near the road is inattentive to traffic.
• Sound signals are used on roads outside settlements before unobservable curves or crests where overtaking is difficult.
• Variable frequency sound signals are prohibited, except as legally specified.

Light Warning Signals

• The light warning signal involves flashing high-beam lights without dazzling oncoming drivers.
• At night, use a light warning signal instead of a sound signal.
• Light signals can be used in settlements when overtaking.
• These signals are permissible during the day if they are more suitable for road conditions.

Turn Signals

• Drivers use all turn signals on public roads as needed.
• Use turn signals when picking up or dropping off passengers.
• It is necessary to warn other drivers of danger.
• Use it in conditions of significantly reduced visibility, like fog or smoke.
• They are used if the vehicle is last in a stopped column outside settlements, excluding stops due to signs or rules.
• Turn signals are required when moving in reverse.
• Use them when stopping on the roadway, except in designated parking areas or when complying with a sign or rule.

Vehicles Under Escort

• These vehicles have police, BIE, or military escorts.
• They display special alternating blue and red flashing lights and variable frequency sound signals (sirens).
• Escort vehicles can use only light signals if visibility is good, unless exceeding speed limits, in which case sirens are mandatory.
• These vehicles have right-of-way over all others, except at intersections with traffic lights or authorized personnel directing traffic.

Vehicles with Right-of-Way

• These include police, emergency services, firefighters, military, BIE, and VBA vehicles.
• They must display special sound and light signals.
• The light signal is a flashing or rotating blue light, with a variable frequency sound signal (siren).
• These vehicles can use only light signals if visibility is good.
• They must use sirens when exceeding speed limits or if the sound signal would not interfere with their task.
• Vehicles with right-of-way have priority over all vehicles, except vehicles under escort and those at controlled intersections.

Vehicles Under Escort and Vehicles with Right-of-Way: In Common

• Speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way, and overtaking prohibitions may not apply in certain situations.
• This is permitted if they do not endanger other traffic participants.
• Light warning signals can be used for better visibility.
• Other drivers must yield to these vehicles by allowing them to pass, or by stopping.
• Follow any instructions from escort personnel.
• Pedestrians must stay off the roadway when these vehicles approach.