Mastering Multilane Turns

October 03, 2023 at 4:04 AM

As drivers, one of the most common and crucial maneuvers we encounter on the road is making turns onto multilane streets or highways. Whether you're turning left or right, the complexity of multilane intersections demands a heightened level of skill and awareness. To ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users, it's imperative to master the art of navigating these turns with confidence and precision.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through step-by-step instructions for making both left and right turns onto multilane roads. By following these carefully laid out instructions, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle multilane intersections with ease and ensure a safer and more enjoyable driving experience for everyone. So, fasten your seatbelt, adjust your mirrors, and let's embark on the journey of mastering multilane turns while driving.

Turning Left onto a Multilane Road: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to making a safe left turn onto a multilane road, it's essential to follow a structured process to ensure both your safety and the safety of others. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Your Rear Vision Mirror

  • Before reaching the intersection, the first thing you should do is check your rear-vision mirror. This helps you stay aware of the traffic behind you, allowing for safer decision-making.

2.  Look Ahead and Anticipate

  • While keeping an eye on your rearview mirror, look ahead and anticipate the situation at the intersection. Pay attention to traffic flow and the intersection's control mechanisms.

3. Indicate Left and Position Your Vehicle

  • As you assess the intersection, signal your intention to turn left. Begin moving towards the left lane, maintaining at least a 1-meter distance from the curb.

4.  Slow Down Gradually

  • Start slowing down well in advance of the intersection. This provides you with ample time to react to changing traffic conditions.

5. Approach at a Safe Speed

  • Ideally, approach the intersection at a speed that allows you to stop safely if necessary, while also considering the flow of traffic. If it's safe to proceed without stopping, do so cautiously.

6. Stop for Stop Signs

  • If the intersection is controlled by a stop sign, you must come to a complete stop before proceeding.

7. Execute the Left Turn

  • Once it's safe to proceed, turn the steering wheel to the left while closely following the curb line. Finish your turn in the left-hand lane.

8. Gradually Accelerate

  • Lightly accelerate as your vehicle straightens out after the turn. Increase your speed if it is safe to do so.

9. Scan for Information Ahead

  • Continuously scan the road ahead for information and potential hazards. Stay alert to changing road conditions.

10. Check Your Rear Vision Mirror Again

  • Once you're settled and driving in the left lane, check your rear-vision mirror to assess the traffic behind you.

Take a look at our video on turning Left onto a Multilane Road.

 

 

Turning Right onto a Multilane Road: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a right turn onto a multilane road requires careful execution to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Follow these steps:

1. Check Your Rear Vision Mirror

  • Before reaching the intersection, check your rear vision mirror to be aware of the traffic behind you.

2. Look Ahead and Anticipate

  • While monitoring your rearview mirror, assess the intersection ahead. Pay attention to traffic flow and how the intersection is controlled.

3. Indicate Right and Position Your Vehicle

  • Signal your intention to turn right and begin moving towards the centre line or the imaginary centre line if there isn't one.

4. Slow Down Gradually

  • Initiate the slowing down process well in advance of the intersection to have ample time to react to any changes in traffic conditions.

5. Approach at a Safe Speed

  • Approach the intersection at a speed that allows you to stop safely, but also be ready to proceed if it's safe to do so, considering the flow of traffic.

6. Stop for Stop Signs

  • If the intersection is controlled by a stop sign, come to a complete stop before proceeding.

7. Execute the Right Turn

  • When it's safe to proceed, begin moving forward and turn the steering wheel to the right. Avoid turning too early to prevent cutting the corner and potentially interfering with oncoming traffic.

8. Finish in the Right-Hand Lane

  • Complete your right turn in the right-hand lane of the multilane road.

9. Gradually Accelerate

  • Lightly accelerate as your vehicle straightens out after the turn. Increase your speed if it is safe to do so.

10. Scan for Information Ahead

  • Continuously scan the road ahead for information and potential hazards. Stay vigilant to changing road conditions.

Step 11: Check Your Rear Vision Mirror Again

Once you're settled in the right lane, check your rear-vision mirror to assess the traffic behind you.

Take a look at our video on Turning Right onto a Multilane Road.

 

By following these step-by-step instructions, you'll be better prepared to navigate left and right turns onto multilane roads safely and confidently.