A 3-minute lesson from the Rhode Island course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Intersections are where you face your greatest risk of a collision, and left turns are a big reason why. Most turning crashes would not happen if drivers signaled early, chose the right lane position and waited until the way was truly clear.
22%
Share of all crashes that happen when one vehicle is turning left
You want to turn left at a green light while a car approaches head-on and another comes from your right. Stay in lane position 2 with your wheels pointed straight, let both cars go, yield to anyone in the crosswalk, then turn and cancel your signal.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Which vehicle has the right-of-way when you are completing a left turn at an intersection?
The turning vehicle always has the right-of-way
The vehicle approaching directly toward you
Whichever vehicle arrived first at the light
Whichever vehicle signals first
Answer: The vehicle approaching directly toward you
Both the vehicle directly approaching you and the one approaching on your right have the right-of-way over your left turn.
True or False: When making a proper right turn, you should first swing slightly left before turning right, so drivers behind you understand your intent.
True
False
Answer: False
Swinging left before turning right is a dangerous habit that can make a following driver think you intend to turn left.
