Eight Steps To Ensure Proper And Safe Left Turns
Left turns can be dangerous. Especially left turns across intersections or left turns on green lights (as opposed to green arrows). As such, it is best for a driver to avoid turning left, whenever possible. However, if a driver must make a left turn, it’s crucial for them to ensure they make a proper and safe turn. This article looks at eight steps that can help drivers make proper and safe left turns.
Step #1: Get In the Left Lane
Suppose a driver is driving on a road with two lanes in the same direction. In such a case, they should ensure they turn on their turn signal and move into the left lane (if they are not already in the left lane). It is important to note that a driver should only move to the left lane after confirming it is safe to do so.
A driver should only turn left from a different lane (i.e., a lane that is not the left lane) if that lane is a left turn lane. Also, if a road has a left turn lane, that is the lane that should be used for making a left turn.
Step #2: Signal
Once a driver is in the proper lane, they should turn on their left turn signal. Florida law requires you to put on your turn signal at least 100 feet before your turn. In some circumstances, drivers can use driving hand signals in place of turn signals.
Making a left turn without signaling is a recipe for disaster.
Step #3: Slow Down
Slowing down when approaching a left turn is crucial because making a left turn at high speed can lead to an accident.
Step #4: Stop at a Red Light or Stop Sign
If at an intersection with a light system or stop sign, a driver should bring their car to a stop at the stop sign or if there is a red light. Drivers should always stop before a crosswalk at a red light.
Step #5: Wait for the Green Light
If at an intersection with a light system, a driver should make sure they wait for the light to turn green before making a left turn.
Step #6: Check for Oncoming Traffic
Before making a left turn, it is crucial to check for oncoming traffic. A driver should never turn if there is oncoming traffic, as it’s against the law and dangerous. It’s also important to check for pedestrians. Additionally, drivers need to keep an eye out for no left turn signs. Where there is such a sign, a left turn should be avoided.
Step #7: Yield
Even if there is a green light, a driver should yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians, if there are any. On the other hand, if there is a green left arrow, it generally means it is safe for a driver to move into the intersection. However, this is not a license to hit other vehicles or pedestrians.
Step #8: Turn
When it’s completely safe to do so, a driver can proceed to make the left turn. When making a left turn, a driver should approach the middle of an intersection slowly and only start speeding back up after completing the left turn.
Contact a Plantation Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured by a driver who made an improper and unsafe left turn, contact our skilled and dedicated Plantation car accident lawyers to get legal help.
Resource:
