Defensive Driving Turning Guide
Turning is one of the most basic aspects of defensive driving, but it can become sloppy because you think it is so easy. First thing is do not be indecisive! Always make up your mind before turning, especially in a place that you are unfamiliar with. With all the construction going on in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, it is important to observer and watch from detours to safely travel. Once you have made the decision of turning, signal in advance so that everyone else knows that you will be turning.
Right Turns
When wanting to make a right turn first make sure that you are on the right side of the road. When approaching an intersection be sure to slow down and to look both ways when turning. Look out for oncoming traffic and pedestrians before making your turn. Also, if there are multiple lanes that are turning right make it so that if you are turning on the right lane that you stay on the right lane. Do not turn on the right lane and end up on the center lane because this can cause a traffic accident if one person is not looking.
Left Turns
Follow similar steps to make a left turn. If there is a left turn lane signal that you are entering that lane and look both ways before turning. Always remember not to cut into the lane of approaching traffic and stay in your corresponding lane.
Turning at a Red Light
You are allowed to turn right at a red light. You must come to a full stop before the stop line. Make sure that it is clear for you to turn, and watch out for pedestrians crossing the street before making your turn. You cannot turn left at a red light due to traffic coming from another direction. If you cannot see oncoming traffic because of a hill or curves then it is suggested that you wait for the green if you feel that it is dangerous.
U-Turns
The only way that you can make a U-turn is if there is not a sign that has the “no U-turn” signal. You must be in the far left lane in order to make a legal U-turn and never make one from the right lane. This can lead to a collision with a car that is in the left lane. Make sure that cars are far away enough for you to make a U-turn safely and that you are able to fully see the oncoming traffic. They are allowed at green lights and across solid yellow lines if it is legal to do so. Do not make a U-turn at a red light, one way street, or a raised median.
For more North Texas defensive driving tips, check out the rest of our blog at ASenseOfHumorDriving.com/blog.
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