A commercial driver operating a combination vehicle must negotiate a sharp right turn at an intersection where extra space is required to prevent the trailer from tracking over the curb. In what chronological sequence should the driver perform the following steps to complete this button-hook turn safely?
- 1Activate the right turn signal early and keep the vehicle close to the right curb or lane edge on approach.
- 2Drive straight forward into the intersection past the crosswalk line before initiating the turn.
- 3Turn wide into the cross street (button-hook) as you execute the turn, watching for oncoming traffic.
- 4Monitor the right mirror to ensure trailer wheels clear the curb, then straighten the vehicle into the proper travel lane.
Answer
The driver should first position close to the right curb with turn signals activated, pull straight forward into the intersection, swing wide as the turn is executed (button-hook), and finally monitor the right mirror to verify curb clearance while centering into the destination lane.
The correct sequence follows the standard CDL button-hook method: first secure the right side by staying close to the curb upon approach, second pull forward into the intersection to set up the pivot point, third swing wide into the cross street during execution to compensate for trailer off-tracking, and fourth monitor rear-axle tracking in mirrors before completing alignment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Button-Hook Right Turn Procedure and Off-Tracking Management
Estimated Time:1m 15s