How to Find the Entry Point for Curve Driving?
4 Answers
Curve driving method to find the entry point is as follows: 1. Check the rearview mirrors: When the distance between the left rearview mirror and the road edge line equals the distance between the right rearview mirror and the road edge line, it indicates the vehicle is centered in the current lane, meaning it is aligned with the curve entrance. Of course, this observation requires a correct sitting posture and properly adjusted mirrors. 2. Observe the angle between the A-pillar and the dashboard: When the angle between the driver's side A-pillar and the dashboard edge aligns with the left edge line of the curve, the vehicle is also driving in the middle of the curve. Maintaining this alignment while adjusting direction will prevent deviation within the curve.
The most stable way to choose the curve entry point is to observe the alignment between the hood and the roadside line. Before driving into the curve, first move closer to the side, keeping the car body about 30 cm away from the curb for optimal safety. Here's the key: when entering a left turn, step on the turning direction once the center of the hood aligns with the right-side line of the curve. For a right turn, let the left corner of the hood follow the left roadside line inward. Our instructor used to emphasize repeatedly: turn the steering wheel early rather than late—turning early allows for adjustments, while turning late guarantees crossing the line. Remember to slow down to below 20 mph in advance; lower speed means higher error tolerance. Beginners should roll down the window to observe tire positions more intuitively—that's how I passed my driving test for Subject 2.
Using fixed reference points is more reliable. I'm used to using the left wiper node as a positioning marker, keeping it aligned with the right yellow line during left turns. For right turns, I switch to the raised part of the front wiper to follow the left line. It's crucial to look far ahead to see the curve's direction rather than focusing on the area right in front of the car. Adjust the rearview mirrors before entering the curve to keep both lines in view. If the rear of the car starts to cross the line, quickly counter-steer to correct, but avoid steering too sharply, especially in rainy conditions to prevent skidding. When I first started driving, I often crossed the lines, but now I remember the 'outside-inside-outside' path rule, which has helped a lot.
The key to finding the entry point lies in anticipating the apex. Before entering the turn, slightly veer to the right to leave room for steering. When the front of the car just covers the curb on the turning side, turn the steering wheel directly by one and a half turns. Remember: for left turns, watch the right side; for right turns, focus on the left side. Experienced drivers know to turn early to leave room for adjustments—don't wait until the car is too far inside. Keep checking the rearview mirrors while turning. Maintain a speed around 15 mph; the slower, the more controllable. After turning the steering wheel fully, slightly ease it back to avoid oversteering. Once you feel the car can make the turn, steady the wheel.
