Left Turns - How to Make Left Turns for Beginners: Left Turn Speed, Traffic Checks, Steering Control

Summary

This driving tutorial offers essential tips for mastering left turns, a common challenge for new drivers. The script covers the importance of assessing the situation, using signals, slowing down, and checking mirrors. It explains different left turn scenarios, including all-way stops and intersections with oncoming traffic. The video emphasizes the need for practice and choosing a visual target for smooth turns. It also introduces two steering methods: hand over hand and push-pull, catering to various driver preferences and situations.

Takeaways

• 🚗 New drivers often struggle with turns due to the combination of motor and mental skills required.
• 🔄 Practice in a safe environment is crucial for mastering the skill of turning.
• 👀 When approaching a left turn, assess the situation by checking for intersections, signs, and traffic.
• 📉 Slow down before making a turn and always check your rear-view mirrors for traffic threats.
• 🚦 Position your car on the leftmost side of your lane before making a left turn.
• 🛑 At a four-way stop, come to a full stop and check for traffic before making a left turn.
• 🚶 Be cautious of blind spots and cross traffic when making turns.
• 👉 For intersections without a stop sign for cross traffic, inch out slowly to get a clear view before turning.
• 🌐 Choose a visual target when making a turn to ensure a smooth and safe maneuver.
• 🚦 In situations with oncoming traffic, only make a turn if it's safe and the oncoming vehicle does not have to brake.
• 👐 Avoid micromanaging the steering wheel and speed; focus on traffic and visual targets instead.
• 🏎 Experience with go-karts or similar vehicles can provide an advantage in learning to make turns.
• 🔄 The hand-over-hand and push-pull methods are both effective for steering during turns; choose the one that provides better control.
• 📌 Hands should never cross when steering to avoid injury in case of airbag deployment.
• 🛣 The speed for a left turn is typically 10 to 15 miles per hour, but adjust based on road conditions.
• 🔄 The steering pattern for a turn is to slow down before the turn, maintain speed through the turn, and accelerate out of the turn.

Q & A

Why is making turns a challenging skill for new drivers to master?

Making turns is challenging because it requires the perfect combination of motor and mental skills, with the brain having to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

What are some of the basic steps to prepare for a left turn in a residential area?

To prepare for a left turn, assess the intersection, check for traffic and pedestrians, slow down by taking your foot off the accelerator 150 to 200 feet before the turn, apply gradual pressure to the brake, put on your left turn signal, and position your car on the leftmost side of your lane.

Why are left turns considered more dangerous than right turns?

Left turns are more dangerous because they often require turning in front of oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of collisions.

What should you do if your view of cross traffic is obstructed when making a left turn?

If your view is obstructed, you should inch out slowly into the intersection until you have a clear view of traffic. Never guess if the way is clear.

What is the importance of keeping your wheels straight while waiting to make a left turn?

Keeping your wheels straight is important because if you get rear-ended while waiting, your car will not be pushed into oncoming traffic.

How should you handle a situation where there is oncoming traffic while making a left turn?

Wait until the oncoming traffic has cleared before making your turn. Ensure that the oncoming car does not need to brake to avoid hitting you. Check for any bikes or pedestrians that might have appeared while waiting.

What is the common mistake new drivers make regarding speed control during a turn?

New drivers often make the mistake of not starting to slow down well before the turn. They wait until right before the turn to decelerate rapidly, which can be dangerous and makes steering control more difficult.

Describe the hand-over-hand method for steering during a left turn.

In the hand-over-hand method, you start with both hands on the wheel at the 10 and 2 position. Use your right hand to push the wheel from 2 o'clock to 10 o'clock while your left hand releases grip. Then, your left hand reaches over your right hand to grab the wheel at 2 o'clock and pulls it to 10 o'clock, as you release your right hand grip. Finally, your right hand returns to 2 o'clock to hold the wheel steady through the turn.

What is the push-pull method for steering, and how is it different from the hand-over-hand method?

In the push-pull method, starting with your hands at the 9 and 3 positions, you push the wheel up with your right hand to the 12 o'clock position and then grab the wheel with your left hand at the same 12 o'clock position without crossing your hands. You then pull it down to the 9 o'clock position and repeat the motion. This method is different because it avoids crossing your hands and is often preferred for wider turns.

What should be your visual focus when making a left turn?

Your visual focus should be on the lane you want to end up in. This helps you make a smooth and safe turn by aiming towards your turning target.