What does it mean to take a wide turn while driving?
3 Answers
This wide turn and small turn refer to the turning radius. The right turn has a smaller radius, while the left turn has a larger radius. Alternatively, it can be described in terms of the turning path—the left turn covers a longer path, and the right turn covers a shorter one. The purpose of taking a wide turn while driving: Vehicles are required to take a wide left turn and a small right turn to ensure traffic safety and avoid collisions with non-motorized vehicles. Small right turn: When making a right turn, vehicles should take a small turn because a larger turning radius would interfere with straight-moving vehicles. Additionally, when turning right, without affecting straight-moving vehicles, the turn should lead into the rightmost lane. If the turn ends up in the middle or leftmost lane, it would disrupt traffic in other lanes.
I've been driving for decades, and taking a wide turn means making the arc a bit larger when turning, not as tight as a sharp turn. It means turning the steering wheel more gently at intersections or curves, allowing the car to follow a larger arc. This way, the operation is more stable, causing less damage to the car's tires and suspension system, especially on mountain roads or bumpy roads where safety is paramount. I remember once driving in heavy rain and taking a wide turn at a highway exit, which helped avoid skidding and an accident—had I taken a sharp turn, the risk would have been much higher. Many beginners don’t understand this and often jerk the steering wheel when exiting a turn, leading to loss of control or rapid tire wear. I suggest making it a habit to check the rearview mirror before turning, slow down in advance, and let the car naturally navigate the curve. This approach is not only safer but also more comfortable for passengers, avoiding unnecessary swaying. In short, taking wide turns is a simple yet practical driving skill—practice makes it second nature.
When I first learned to drive, my instructor taught me that taking wide turns means not turning sharply but gently guiding the car along a large arc. The idea is to turn the steering wheel lightly when making a curve from a straight road, allowing the front of the car to follow the arc smoothly. At first, I thought I could just turn sharply, but when I tried a tight turn at a neighborhood intersection, the car almost scraped the curb. Later, I realized that wide turns are especially important on slippery surfaces, like wet roads after rain, where sharp turns can easily cause skidding and accidents. I’ve also tried taking wide turns in congested traffic—it reduces the risk of rear-ending and feels safer. For daily commutes, this method saves fuel by minimizing sudden acceleration and braking. I think beginners should observe experienced drivers or practice in open areas to gradually get a feel for the rhythm. Remember, driving isn’t a race—safety comes first.
