Driver Safety: Left Turns

Left turn collisions can be very severe, often resulting in head-on or T-bone type collisions. Typically, the person making the left turn is deemed at fault, unless the oncoming vehicle had a stop sign or stop light.

Tips to Avoid Left-Turn Collisions:

Choose Safe Intersections: Make left turns at intersections with stop signs or lights when possible.

Use Left Turn Signals: Turning at intersections with left turn signals is safest, as a green arrow means other drivers have a stop signal.

Exercise Caution on Green Lights: When making a left turn on a green light or where there is no traffic control, use extreme caution:

• Ensure there is an adequate gap in oncoming and cross traffic.
• Check that oncoming traffic is not screened by other vehicles.
• Confirm the road or driveway you are turning into is free of congestion to avoid blocking oncoming traffic.

Watch for Motorcycles: 44% of motorcycle fatalities involving another vehicle occur when the vehicle is making a left turn in front of the motorcycle.

Check Mirrors and Blind Spots: On 2-lane roads, check your left-hand mirror and blind spot to ensure a vehicle is not trying to pass you on the left.

Be Aware of Pedestrians and Bicyclists:

• Scan the intersection for pedestrians and bicyclists as you approach a left turn.
• Always yield to pedestrians and bicyclists, even if you have the right-of-way.
• Check your mirrors for bicyclists that may be making a left turn in or next to your lane.

Use Extra Caution When Pulling a Trailer:

• It takes longer to make a left turn. Ensure you have an adequate gap to make your turn.
• Oncoming traffic may not realize you are pulling a trailer until it's too late.
• If making a left turn at a light with two left-turn lanes, choose the outside lane to the right:
  • Outer left-turn lanes have a larger turn radius to maneuver the trailer.
  • The outer turn lane positions the driver to better observe the vehicle turning next to them.