What is the correct way to make a left turn in a car?
2 Answers
Observe pedestrians and oncoming traffic ahead, and turn left after confirming safety. At intersections with traffic lights, pay attention to the traffic lights and the movement of pedestrians and vehicles. At intersections with designated lanes, enter the appropriate lane based on your intended direction. When preparing to enter a roundabout, yield to vehicles already inside the intersection. When making a left turn, turn from the left side of the intersection center point. Activate the turn signal when turning, and use low beams when driving at night. If there is no stop line, stop before the intersection. When making a right turn and encountering a vehicle in the same lane waiting for the signal, stop and wait in sequence. Turning vehicles must yield to vehicles and pedestrians going straight. Right-turning vehicles from the opposite direction must yield to left-turning vehicles.
When making a left turn while driving, I always exercise extra caution as it directly relates to safety. First, I signal left in advance to inform other drivers of my intentions—no need for them to guess. Then, I slow down and proceed carefully, checking the intersection conditions: Are there any oncoming vehicles? Are there pedestrians attempting to cross? Is the traffic light green or red? If there's a safety island or dedicated turning lane, I make use of it instead of forcing my way through. During the turn, I avoid excessive speed, steer smoothly without abrupt braking, and refrain from jerking the steering wheel to prevent fishtailing. After completing the turn, I don’t accelerate immediately; instead, I observe the surroundings to ensure a clear path. At night or in rainy conditions, I drive even slower—poor visibility due to dim streetlights increases the risk of accidents. Remember, left turns aren’t a race; arriving safely matters far more than saving a few seconds. These details have been my routine for over a decade of driving, and they’ve spared me plenty of trouble.
