How Much to Turn the Steering Wheel When Making a Left Turn at an Intersection?
3 Answers
Generally, turn the steering wheel one full rotation when making a left turn. Below is an introduction to related content: Traffic Accidents: When encountering an emergency while driving on the road, avoid jerking the steering wheel suddenly, as it can easily lead to a traffic accident. Minor adjustments are usually sufficient. Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is typically composed of a skeleton and foam, which together form a simple steering wheel. Driving: When turning while driving, first ease off the accelerator and apply the brake to reduce speed. Simultaneously, observe the rearview mirror on the side you intend to turn to ensure there are no pedestrians or vehicles behind. After slowing down, as you approach the turn, gradually adjust the steering wheel to align the vehicle (avoid braking sharply while turning the wheel, as this can easily cause an accident).
I never fix the exact steering wheel angle when making a left turn. It varies based on the intersection size, vehicle speed, and curve radius. I believe the key is ensuring safe entry into the turn. For example, at a standard crossroad, if the road is wide with light traffic, slowing down to 20-30 km/h in advance and gently turning the wheel about a quarter turn ensures a smooth transition. For sharp turns or narrow intersections, a half turn or more may be needed to prevent the front of the car from veering out of the lane. I also make it a habit to observe oncoming traffic, adhering to the 'slow in, fast out' principle—taking the turn slowly at first, then accelerating out. Steering should be smooth, not jerky, to avoid tire squeal or veering, especially on wet roads. Flexibility is crucial; don’t rigidly count degrees.
I rely on experience to judge the steering wheel rotation for left turns, which generally ranges from 1/4 to 3/4 of a full turn. First, reduce speed to a safe level, approximately 10-20% lower than the speed before the turn, then align with the centerline of the curve and begin steering. For gentle curves, less steering is needed, while sharper turns with smaller radii require more steering input. I also consider the vehicle type—sedans require lighter and smaller steering inputs, whereas SUVs might need a bit more force. Before exiting the turn, gently counter-steer to stabilize the car body, avoiding sudden release that could lead to loss of control. Regular practice on open roads to get accustomed to the feel of different curve radii is most practical. Mastery comes with practice—that's the golden rule.
