How do you make a good left turn in a car?

Question

my instructor says that I need to go all the way out then make the turn and he says I cut the turn short. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

your instructor is right. if you turn to early you may get up on the sidewalk.

Answer 2

Signal your intentions to make a left turn. If you did not have to stop at the intersection, begin slowing down at least 100 feet from the corner.

Proceed with caution into the intersection. Do not turn the wheel until you are ready to actually make the left turn.

Wait until there is no on-coming traffic. Yield to any vehicles (including bicycles) approaching from the opposite direction.

Look in all directions carefully before starting your turn.

Slow down to a safe speed to make a left turn.

Complete the turn by staying right of the centerline and by turning into the appropriate lane in which is designated to be turned into.

Answer 3

when the sidewalk (right hand drive)or centre line (left hand drive) is half way along side front window make your turn. This will stop you turning short.

Answer 4

ask your instructor

Answer 5

Your instructor is right,   if you start turning too early you are entering opposing traffic lanes too early.    Many do this,  but it isn't correct.

Properly.....

1.  move into left lane (if more than one) well in advance of your turn

2.  signal at least 200 feet before the intersection.   signal stays on until turn complete

3.  enter the intersection only when clear to do so

4.  move into the intersection staying in your lane as long as possible

5.  when no opposing traffic,  turn into the lane nearest you on the other road,  the left one.

Note,  swerving through a turn as you propose often means additional wear and strain on tire sidewalls,  excessive time in the opposing lanes,  excess speed often takes you into the incorrect lane.   Turning into the correct lane is crucial in that if there is someone coming you missed seeing,  you give them a place to go to avoid an accident for which you would have been at fault.