Question

Difficulty: HardTurning Procedures and Signaling

You are driving on a multi-lane road and intend to make a left turn using a dedicated center two-way left-turn lane (TWLTL). What is the correct chronological sequence of steps required to execute this maneuver safely and legally?

  1. 1Check mirrors and turn head to check left blind spot for traffic already occupying or entering the center turn lane.
  2. 2Activate the left turn signal at least 100 feet before reaching the entry point of the center turn lane.
  3. 3Smoothly transition entirely into the center turn lane without driving in it for an excessive distance.
  4. 4Slow down or come to a stop in the center lane and yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
  5. 5Complete the left turn into the designated lane of the cross street as soon as a safe gap in traffic opens.

Answer

The proper sequence to make a left turn using a center two-way left-turn lane is: 1) Check mirrors and blind spot, 2) Activate left turn signal at least 100 feet before entering the turn lane, 3) Smoothly merge into the center turn lane, 4) Yield right-of-way to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians, and 5) Complete the turn into the cross street when clear.
The correct order follows established defensive driving principles and legal turning rules: first scanning blind spots, then signaling intent at least 100 feet prior, transitioning smoothly into the designated turn lane, yielding to oncoming traffic, and finally proceeding through the intersection when clear.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Scan mirrors and check left blind spot.
Confirms the center turn lane is unoccupied by other vehicles.
Always assess traffic conditions visually prior to initiating any lateral vehicle position changes.
2
Engage the left turn signal at least 100 feet in advance.
Communicates turning intent to traffic behind and ahead.
Traffic safety regulations require continuous signaling prior to changing lanes or turning.
3
Steer into the center two-way left-turn lane while decelerating.
Clears the through-traffic lane while positioning the vehicle for the turn.
Center turn lanes exist to remove turning vehicles from moving traffic streams without being used as extended travel lanes.
4
Yield right-of-way while stationary or moving at low speed within the center lane.
Prevents collisions with approaching opposing vehicles.
Drivers making left turns across oncoming lanes must yield to all approaching traffic close enough to constitute an immediate hazard.
5
Steer cleanly through the turn into the appropriate lane of the intersecting roadway.
Completes the maneuver safely.
Final entry into the target roadway completes the turning procedure.

Key Concept

Center Two-Way Left-Turn Lane Execution and Yielding Sequence
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