What is an important guideline for using turn signals while driving?

Using turn signals early when turning is crucial for safe driving because it communicates your intended actions to other road users in advance. This practice allows other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians enough time to anticipate and react accordingly, reducing the risk of accidents. Signaling early is especially important because it provides a clear indication of your intentions, helping to maintain a smooth flow of traffic and promoting safety on the road.

In contrast, the other options do not emphasize the importance of early communication with other road users. Limiting the use of signals to urban areas or only at intersections ignores the need for signaling in various driving situations, such as merging or changing lanes across different types of roadways. Additionally, signaling strictly when changing lanes does not include situations where turns are involved, which could lead to confusion and increase the risks associated with lane changes and turns if other drivers are unaware of your intentions.