Geared to Go A Workbook for Coaching New Drivers

4Left turnsA left turn requires extra attention. The following instructions will help the new driver make a safeleft turn.Coach’s TipStart with what is most familiar. Have the new driver practise left turns from a two-way streetonto a two-way street before progressing to other left turn situations.• Reduce speed well ahead of the turn or intersection (recommended distance is about 50 metres orone-half block).• Make a lane change, if required, into the lane going in your direction that is closest to the centre. Ifthere is a left turning lane, use this. Change lanes well ahead (at least 15 metres) of the intersection.• Signal the intention to turn about 30 metres or one-third of a block from the intersection in urbanareas. In rural areas signal about 100 metres from the turn.• Obey the traffic lights or signs in the intersection.• Check carefully left, centre and right for hazards, obstacles, pedestrians, other traffic and the first laneto be used after turning.• Check intended path of travel to establish the centre line or centre of roadway (this could be markedor unmarked).• Enter the intersection to a point about one vehicle length back from the first available lane. Keep thefront wheels facing straight ahead.Two-way into a two-way:turn from the lane nearest the centre lineinto the lane nearest the centre line.• Yield to approaching traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk.• Look in the intended path of travel and keep scanning for pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists.• Do a shoulder check left to be sure no vehicles or cyclists are about to pass on the left side. Thisapplies to both urban and rural areas.• Steer hand-over-hand into the intended path of travel, maintaining a safe and controlled speed.• Accelerate smoothly and move with the traffic flow.• Make sure the signal light is off.• Resume scan and look 12 to 15 seconds (one and one-half city blocks) down the road in urban areasand 25 seconds ahead in rural areas.34