What is an important step in turning?
Check traffic in all directions.
Increase your speed.
Always move to the left lane.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Check traffic in all directions.
Explanation:
When making a turn, whether it is a right or left turn, checking traffic in all directions is a crucial safety step. This action helps ensure that the driver is aware of their surroundings, which includes any pedestrians, vehicles, cyclists, or other potential hazards. It reduces the risk of collisions and helps maintain safe traffic flow.
Why is this important?
- Ensures Safety for All Road Users: The primary reason for checking traffic is to make sure that it is safe to proceed with the turn. This includes looking both ways and checking for any oncoming vehicles, pedestrians crossing the street, or cyclists who might be approaching. Failing to do so can lead to accidents, such as T-bone collisions or hitting a pedestrian, both of which can have serious consequences.
- Helps in Anticipating Potential Hazards: By checking in all directions, a driver can anticipate any issues that may arise during the turn. For example, seeing a pedestrian about to cross the road allows the driver to wait until it’s safe. Similarly, spotting an approaching vehicle or a cyclist provides the driver with an opportunity to adjust their turn to avoid interference.
- Prevents Disregard for Traffic Laws: Making sure the path is clear before turning helps a driver stay compliant with traffic laws and regulations, avoiding potential fines or penalties.
- Mitigates Blind Spots: Checking all directions helps identify vehicles or objects in blind spots that may not be visible in the side mirrors. This is especially important when turning left, as vehicles approaching from behind can sometimes be obscured by the vehicle’s structure or other objects.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Increase your speed: This is dangerous and contrary to safe driving practices. Increasing speed when preparing to turn can reduce control and increase the risk of an accident.
- Always move to the left lane: This is not necessarily true. Lane changes depend on the direction of the turn and road rules. Moving to the left lane when not required can create confusion and potentially dangerous situations for other drivers.
In summary, checking traffic in all directions is the most important step before turning, ensuring the safety of the driver and others on the road.