What causes cutting corners during right-angle turns?
3 Answers
The reasons for cutting corners during right-angle turns include: incorrect starting position for the turn, insufficient space; driving too fast, resulting in delayed steering wheel response; failure to accurately identify reference points, inadequate space reserved on either side, making it easy to cross the left or right boundary line. Poor choice of starting position: The main issue is not accurately determining the wheel position during practice, causing the left wheel to be too close to the boundary line when reaching the turning point. Even with perfect timing on steering, the left rear wheel may still cross the line due to the inner wheel difference. It is recommended to adjust the vehicle's position properly, leaving more space on the left side to pass more safely. Excessive speed and delayed reaction: Subject 2 of the driving test does not impose strict time limits. During practice, you can drive slightly faster to improve your reaction skills. However, during the actual test, it is advisable to slow down, as this makes it easier to locate reference points and allows for more composed steering.
I've been driving on the road for over twenty years, and I often see incidents of wheels hitting the curb during right-angle turns. Simply put, it's when the wheels run over the curb or the corner of a wall during a 90-degree turn. There are many reasons for this: sometimes the driver is in too much of a hurry, driving too fast, and as soon as they turn the wheel, they scrape against it; other times, the intersection is narrow, the steering wheel is turned too sharply, and the tire directly hits the corner. The consequences? The tire sidewall gets scratched or bulges, and the suspension can get shaken loose, leading to expensive repairs. I recommend slowing down about 30 meters before turning in residential areas or parking lots, quickly glancing at the corner position, and turning the wheel gently without sudden movements. Also, pay attention to the size of the vehicle—SUVs are more prone to hitting corners because of their heavier body and greater inertia, while smaller cars with shorter wheelbases are more agile. Practice in a wide-open area to simulate these situations and develop good habits to avoid this issue. Safe driving is a fundamental skill—don’t risk major problems just to save a few seconds.
Corner cutting at right angles sounds cool, but it actually means the tires ride over the corner apex during a turn. As an enthusiastic car enthusiast who loves studying vehicles, I see this as a dynamic issue: high speed combined with centrifugal force pushes the outer wheels toward the edge, risking curb contact in tight spaces. The downsides are significant—reduced tire lifespan, worn side treads, and compromised handling safety. Solutions include optimizing steering angles (don’t rush), braking before the turn, or learning techniques like anticipating the apex. Vehicle design also plays a role—front-wheel-drive cars’ rear-wheel drag makes them prone to corner cutting. I’ve practiced speed control techniques in track simulations, balancing fun and safety. Always maintain distance while driving—healthy tires ensure smooth journeys!
