Left turn in a busy intersection
Left turns in busy intersections require proper positioning, good timing and systematic observation.
A good left turn in a busy intersection is about reading several conflicts at the same time: oncoming traffic, pedestrians, cars behind you and the lane you need to enter after the turn.
What you need to know
- You must position the car early so others understand what you are doing.
- Timing matters more than raw speed when you assess a gap.
- A good scanning pattern reduces the risk of locking onto one single conflict.
Typical situations
| Situation | What you should do | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Signal-controlled intersection with heavy traffic | Stop calmly in the correct position and wait for a clear gap or a green arrow. | Rolling forward without control of the oncoming traffic. |
| Intersection without traffic lights | Read the speed and distance of oncoming traffic early. | Starting the turn because you hope the other driver will brake. |
| Pedestrian crossing after the turn | Be ready to stop after you have crossed the oncoming lane. | Focusing so much on the cars that you forget pedestrians. |
Common mistakes
- Waiting too far to the right or left in your own lane.
- Staring at one car and losing track of the rest of the intersection.
- Finishing the turn into the wrong lane.
How to practice
Combine this with Visibility in intersections , Turning right in intersections and Right of way and roundabouts .