Making a left turn is generally a relatively simple procedure, but you’ll sometimes need to alter your road position just prior to the turn, else things can go terribly wrong. Here, we explain the best road position for making a left turn, based on the types of road you’ll be driving on.
For the majority of roads, you’ll simply need to remain in the centre of your lane just prior to making the left turn. This is the best road position as it’ll usually give you enough space to avoid mounting the kerb and also prevent you from taking the corner too wide, ending up on the opposite side of the road as you round the corner (see below for clarification).
Positioning Too Close to the Kerb
Problems can arise if you position your car too close to the kerb just prior to taking the left turn. As we can see from this diagram below, there’s a high chance that you may mount the kerb as you round the corner.
To avoid mounting the kerb, you can continue driving forward further before turning left. The issue with this is that due to the turning angle of the car, you may end up on the opposite side of the road as you enter the left turn as seen in the diagram below.
In an attempt to avoid driving over the kerb, you can continue forward a little further before steering left. The problem with this, is due to the turning angle of your car, you’re likely to straddle the centre line of the road you’re entering, crossing over to the opposite side of the road as you turn. Either this scenario of the one above is highly likely to fail the driving test.
Taking a Narrow Left Turn
As mentioned early on, for the majority of roads, when making a left turn, you usually position your car in the centre of your lane just prior to taking the turn. However, you must always look at the road you wish to enter prior to entering it. If the left turn you intend on taking is narrow, you’ll need to position your car to the right side of your lane prior to entering.
All cars have a limited turning circle, so by moving over to the right side of your lane, you’ll allow more room for your car to make the turn, therefore eliminating the possibility of driving over the kerb or crossing onto the opposite side of the road as you make the turn.
Before moving over to the right-side of your lane prior to the turn, always check your mirrors to ensure it’s safe to do so. Also, ensure that you stay only in your lane and avoid straddling the centre line. When making the turn, keep your car extra slow as this will help to improve your control of the vehicle.