Learn How to Drive Safely and Confidently While Turning
Driving is an exciting activity that most people love, but it also comes with some level of risk. Turning is one of the most crucial aspects of driving, and it requires skill, experience, and confidence. In this article, we will discuss some tips and techniques that you can use to drive safely and confidently while turning.
Understanding the Importance of Turning
Turning is an essential maneuver that you must master as a driver. Whether you are changing lanes, turning on a curve, or making a U-turn, you need to understand the importance of turning.
The primary reason why you need to master turning is that it affects your safety and that of other road users. If you turn too sharply or too quickly, your car may spin out of control, leading to an accident.
Another reason why you need to learn how to turn correctly is that it affects the overall driving experience. Turning smoothly and confidently makes driving less stressful, and it also enhances your driving confidence and ability.
How to Prepare for Turning
Before making a turn, you need to prepare your car and yourself adequately. Below are some essential preparation tips that you can use:
1. Check Your Surroundings
Before you start turning, you need to check your surroundings carefully. Look out for any potential hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming vehicles.
2. Slow Down
Before turning, you need to slow down. Reducing your speed allows you to maneuver your car more efficiently and also gives you more control.
3. Check Your Mirrors
Check your mirrors and make sure you are in the right lane. You should also check your blind spots, especially when making a lane change or a U-turn.
Techniques for Turning
Now that you know how to prepare for turning let’s look at some techniques that you can use.
1. Use Your Turn Signal
Before you start turning, make sure you signal your intentions. Using your turn signal notifies other drivers of your intentions, and it also helps you avoid collisions.
2. Slow Down Gradually
When approaching a turn, you need to start slowing down gradually. You should reduce your speed before entering the turn to give yourself more time and space to maneuver.
3. Position Your Car Correctly
Positioning your car correctly is crucial when turning. You should maintain a safe distance from the curb or the edge of the road. If you are turning left, you should stay to the right of the road’s center.
4. Steer Smoothly
When turning, you need to steer smoothly and gradually. If you jerk the steering wheel too quickly, your car may spin out of control, leading to an accident. Steer gently and steadily to maintain a proper grip on the road.
5. Accelerate Smoothly
After completing the turn, you need to accelerate smoothly. Gradually increase your speed to avoid any sudden jerks or jolts that could destabilize your car.
Conclusion
In summary, mastering turning is an essential skill that every driver should have. Understanding the importance of turning, preparing for turning, and using the right techniques can help you drive safely and confidently while turning. Remember always to drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings.
FAQ
1) How Can I Prepare Myself for Turning?
Before turning, you can prepare yourself by slowing down, checking your surroundings, and checking your mirrors. Position your car appropriately before starting to turn.
2) Why Is It Important to Use Your Turn Signals?
Using your turn signals notifies other drivers of your intentions, and it also helps you avoid collisions.
3) How Should I Accelerate After Turning?
After turning, you should accelerate smoothly. Gradually increase your speed to avoid sudden jerks or jolts that could destabilize your car.
4) What Happens if I Turn Sharply or Too Quickly?
If you turn sharply or too quickly, your car may spin out of control, leading to an accident.
5) How Can Mastering Turning Affect My Overall Driving Experience?
Turning smoothly and confidently makes driving less stressful, and it also enhances your driving confidence and ability.
6) What Should I Do If I Encounter Hazards While Turning?
If you encounter hazards while turning, slow down or stop if necessary. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and cyclists.
7) How Can I Position My Car Correctly When Turning?
Positioning your car correctly is crucial when turning. You should maintain a safe distance from the curb or the edge of the road. If you are turning left, you should stay to the right of the road’s center.
References
[1] “How to Make a Turn While Driving: 11 Steps (with Pictures).” Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Turn-While-Driving.
[2] “How to Turn Your Car | 5 Tips for Turning Safely.” Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.drive-safely.net/how-to-turn-your-car/.
[3] “How to Turn Your Car the Right Way, Everytime.” Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.defensivedriving.org/defensive-driving-tips/how-to-turn-right/.
