You are waiting to turn left at a multilane intersection and opposing traffic is blocking your view. You should:
Answers
Accelerate rapidly when the first lane you need to cross is clear.
Wait until you can see all the lanes you need to cross before going ahead with your turn.
Wait for an oncoming driver to wave you across the intersection.
Edge your car into each lane of opposing traffic as soon as it clears.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Wait until you can see all the lanes you need to cross before going ahead with your turn.
Explanation:
When turning left at a multilane intersection, the primary concern is safety, both for yourself and other drivers. If opposing traffic is blocking your view of the lanes you need to cross, it is critical to wait until you have a clear line of sight before proceeding with your turn. This ensures that you can make the turn safely without risking a collision with oncoming vehicles.
Here’s why waiting until you can see all lanes is the safest option:
- Visibility and Safety: A blocked view increases the risk of entering traffic without seeing vehicles that may be approaching or already in motion in the lanes you need to cross. If you can’t see the lanes clearly, you might inadvertently turn into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Waiting until your view is unobstructed allows you to assess all lanes and make an informed decision when it’s safe to turn.
- Avoiding Reckless Maneuvers: Accelerating rapidly or edging your car into each lane as soon as it clears is not advisable. These actions may put you at risk of misjudging the situation and either entering the intersection too quickly or unexpectedly crossing into the path of other vehicles. Such maneuvers could lead to accidents, especially if you are not able to clearly see oncoming traffic.
- Driver Signals: Waiting for an oncoming driver to wave you across might seem polite, but it’s not a reliable safety strategy. Drivers in opposing lanes may not have a clear understanding of your intentions, and relying on gestures or signals could lead to miscommunication. It’s essential to be able to make the decision to turn based on your own judgment and visibility rather than on another driver’s actions.
In conclusion, waiting until you can see all the lanes clearly ensures that you make your turn with full knowledge of the traffic situation, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents. Prioritize your safety by waiting for the proper moment to turn.