Are drivers always required to indicate their intention to pass by using directional signals?

In the context of traffic regulations and safe driving practices, drivers are not always required to indicate their intention to pass by using directional signals. The correct answer reflects that while signaling is generally a best practice for ensuring safety and communication with other road users, regulations may vary by specific circumstances or locations.

For example, if a driver is passing another vehicle on a two-lane road where it is legal to do so, they might not be legally required to signal if there are no other vehicles or pedestrians within sight. This distinguishes the obligation to signal from the general driving practices that prioritize safety and caution.

Regarding the other options, requiring signals at all times (the first choice) may imply an absolute rule that does not account for specific circumstances, while signaling only when others are present fails to recognize that safety protocols should still be followed regardless of others being within sight. Similarly, stipulating that signaling is only necessary in urban areas diminishes the importance of signaling in rural or less populated settings where passing maneuvers are performed as well. Hence, understanding these distinctions helps reinforce safe driving behaviors.