How to align with the edge line during a right-angle turn?
3 Answers
After entering the test area, try to stay close to the outer side of the curve. The examinee should align the left side of the engine hood with the vertical yellow line on the inner corner side and proceed forward. Continue observing the left side. When the intersection of the window frame and the car door aligns with the inner corner of the curve, quickly turn the steering wheel fully to the left to navigate the turn. While turning, pay attention to the left rearview mirror to ensure the wheels do not cross the line. After completing the turn, when the car body is about to align parallel with the yellow lines on both sides, straighten the steering wheel and drive out of the test area.
When I was taking my driver's license test, I was most afraid of the 90-degree turn. My instructor taught me a seemingly clumsy method that surprisingly worked well. First, align the right one-third of the car's front with the roadside yellow line, then slowly creep forward while keeping an eye on the right rearview mirror to maintain a two-fist-width distance between the car body and the edge line. Don't be too greedy with the steering—wait until the rearview mirror lines up with the corner before turning the wheel all the way. At this point, the tire and curb should be about a shoe's width apart. With enough practice, you'll be able to adjust by feel. The key is not to panic with the steering wheel—slow down to below 20 km/h before the turn and look ahead toward the exit of the curve. Straighten the car and immediately return the wheel. Oh, and remember to leave extra distance on rainy days since tires are prone to slipping. Experienced drivers always say: better too wide than crossing the line.
A while ago, while accompanying my wife during her driving practice, she kept running over the lines during right-angle turns. I developed a set of reference point techniques. Before entering the turn, adjust the car body so that the raised part of the windshield wiper aligns with the edge of the solid line on the right, maintaining straight driving for about five meters. When your shoulder passes the utility pole at the corner, quickly turn the steering wheel to full lock. At this point, pay special attention to the left front wheel—start steering back when you feel it's about one foot away from the inner corner line. Remember to open the window and listen for tire sounds; gravel roads produce noticeable friction sounds that indicate distance. Don't rely on the reversing camera, as reflections from wet patches on the ground can lead to misjudgment. Finally, straighten the car head swiftly and return the steering wheel to center. If the curb appears parallel in the rearview mirror, you've succeeded.
