To turn a car properly, start by signaling your intention to turn well in advance and positioning your vehicle in the correct lane. Slow down to a safe speed, check mirrors and blind spots, then use the hand-over-hand or push-pull steering techniques to smoothly steer into the turn. Complete the turn by straightening the wheel as you exit and accelerating gently.
Key Steps for Turning
- Signal at least 100 feet before the turn and position your vehicle correctly (left lane for left turns, right lane for right turns).
- Slow down before reaching the turn.
- Use proper steering techniques:
- Hand-over-hand method: One hand pushes the wheel while the other hand crosses over to pull the wheel further through the turn.
- Push-pull method: One hand pushes the wheel up, and the other pulls it down without crossing hands.
- Look in the direction of the turn and be aware of pedestrians and traffic.
- Straighten the wheel by reversing the steering motion as you finish the turn and accelerate smoothly.
Steering Wheel Turn Amount
Most turns require about three-quarters of a full turn of the steering wheel, though this varies by turn sharpness.
Additional Tips
- Always check mirrors and blind spots before turning.
- Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic if required.
- Adjust the steering more for slow turns and less for high-speed turns.
These tips come from expert driving tutorials and guides for beginners to properly and safely make turns while driving.
