Often, one finds themselves either on the wrong lane or on the wrong road and has to find a way to go to the correct highway or street. U-turns have made it easier for drivers to go back and find their way to where they were headed. Drivers ought to be careful when making a u-turn to avoid creating an accident and penalties by traffic police.
Many drivers, especially those at high speed, create ghastly accidents out of a lack of knowledge when making a U-turn. It calls for a proper understanding of the steps to take before making a U-turn. This 5-hour course will enable you to enlighten yourself on safe driving.
Steps for Making a U-Turn
1. Ensure proper lane changing techniques.
When changing lanes, you should use the side mirrors to see oncoming vehicles and ensure you check on the speed of the oncoming cars to avoid creating an accident. Merge with the speed of the oncoming vehicles, do not be too slow for them.
2. Move to the closest lane towards the point of turning.
Changing the closest lane to the U-turn before reaching the point enables the driver to make calculated moves. It also ensures the driver makes a smooth turn.
3. Indicate the turn signal.
As you approach the turning point, indicate the turn signal. The signals will help notify the drivers that you are about to make a turn, and in return, they will reduce speed and create a safe space for the driver.
4. Turn smoothly and adapt to the speed.
As you make the turn approach the turn slowly and carefully. Do not rush to make the turn unless the lane is clear. If traffic lights are present, ensure they allow you to proceed once you make the turn and adapt to the speed of the oncoming vehicles to prevent emergency breaks.
5. Drive to the closest lane.
Once you turn, enter the closest lane to the turn to avoid clashing with the vehicles on the other highways. However, if you wish to move to a different route, you can indicate the turn signal again to change lanes, but after ensuring the road is clear and safe to change.
6. Resume speed and turn off signal
After establishing the lane, you would like to turn to resume speed and turn off the turn signal to avoid confusing the oncoming vehicles.
And that is how you make a U-Turn successfully.
Where is One Allowed to Make a U-turn?
1. U-turn sign
You can safely make a U-turn if a road sign indicates U-turning is allowed. This requires one to attend driving school classes to understand the road signs.
2. Greenlight on the traffic lights.
When approaching a turn with traffic lights, only turn when the lights indicate green which means you can proceed. However, before making any turns make sure the road is safe.
3. When the road is clear and safe.
Only make a turn when there are no oncoming vehicles or their speed is safe enough to allow you to turn smoothly.
4. On a dead-end road.
You are allowed to make a U-turn if the road is reaching a dead-end meaning there is no throughway for any vehicles.
Where Should I Avoid Making a U-turn
1. ‘Do not make a U-Turn’ sign
You are not allowed to make a U-turn on a ‘Do not make U-turn traffic sign’. Failure to comply often leads to heavy penalties and charges.
2. On a T-junction.
Turning on a T-junction is dangerous as there are many oncoming vehicles from different directions. It's highly prohibited.
Make U-Turns carefully to avoid creating accidents.