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Difficulty: MediumDefensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation

You are driving on a multi-lane roadway and intend to turn left at an intersection controlled by a flashing yellow turn arrow. An oncoming large delivery truck in the opposite left-turn lane completely blocks your view of oncoming straight-through lanes. What is the safest defensive driving action before initiating the turn?

  1. Yield and wait until oncoming traffic clears and your line of sight down the opposing lanes is fully restored.Answer
  2. B
    Accelerate quickly into the turn under the assumption that a flashing yellow arrow grants left-turning vehicles automatic right-of-way.
  3. C
    Maintain your current speed and complete the turn promptly, as driving below the posted speed limit violates traffic law regardless of visual obstructions.
  4. D
    Come to a complete mandatory stop and remain stationary until the signal changes to a solid green arrow.

Answer

Yield and wait until oncoming traffic clears and your line of sight down the opposing lanes is fully restored.
The correct answer emphasizes hazard anticipation. When an oncoming large vehicle blocks the view of adjacent travel lanes, hidden oncoming traffic presents a major danger. A defensive driver yields and delays the turn until line of sight is completely restored and it is verified safe to proceed.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the traffic control signal and right-of-way requirements.
Recognize that a flashing yellow arrow permits a left turn only after yielding to all oncoming traffic.
Left turns across oncoming lanes on a flashing yellow signal are unprotected.
2
Assess environmental sight restrictions and potential hidden hazards.
Identify that the oncoming large truck creates a visual blind spot blocking view of straight-through lanes.
Oncoming straight-through vehicles behind or beside the truck may be approaching at speed and invisible to the driver.
3
Select the appropriate defensive maneuver.
Pause and adjust vehicle position or timing until line of sight is completely clear.
Defensive driving dictates never driving into an unverified or blind path of potential oncoming traffic.

Key Concept

Defensive Line-of-Sight Management and Unprotected Left Turn Hazards
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Topics

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation

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