DRIVING GUIDE - IN ASSOCIATION WITH ROBOSOUL APPS

TURNING RIGHT

This section is about turning right from a major road into a minor road, or to put it another way, from a main road into a side road.

BASIC ROUTINE – MSPSL

Mirrors: Start by checking your interior and right mirrors. You want to know how your actions will affect other road users.

Signal: Let others know what you intend to do by giving a right signal in plenty of time. Look out for other roads on the right and avoid giving a misleading signal. In this case you can move your position before signalling, as long as you have checked it is safe.

Position: When you are sure it is safe, move your position towards the right and align yourself next to the middle of the road. Do not cross the centre lines unless it is unavoidable. If there are no centre lines to mark the middle of the road, you will have to look carefully at the road and try to discern where the centre lines would be if they were present.

Speed: Bring your speed down nice and early. This will give you time to assess the junction and make the right decision about when to turn. Early use of the brake is good because it offers the maximum control over the vehicle’s speed, as well as providing an early signal (in the form of brake lights) for anyone traveling behind you.

Look: Before you turn into the side road, make sure you look into it. You must ensure the way is clear before you commit yourself. Be especially vigilant for pedestrians stepping onto the road from either side and remember that pedestrians on the road have priority. Use your mirrors to ensure nobody is attempting to pass on your right.

MORE THINGS TO REMEMBER

Approaching traffic has priority over you. Do not turn right if it would cause an oncoming vehicle to have to change speed or direction.

You have priority over vehicles emerging from the side road.

If your path is blocked, stick to the the normal path as much as you can and only deviate from it where you have no other option. If necessary, hold back from the junction while assessing when it is safe to turn.

GEARS

If a gear change is necessary, this should be done shortly before the turn – after you have started slowing down and had a chance to assess the situation. You will usually need either first or second gear. As always, match your gear to your speed.