Turning Right.
Many accidents occur when drivers turn right at intersections, failure to see the
oncoming vehicle is a most frequent reason. Often the oncoming vehicle is obscured
from the view of the driver turning right by the other vehicles turning right from
the opposite direction, especially where a large truck or van is turning. Inexperience
may tempt you to proceed into the intersection further than you should in order
to obtain a clearer view of approaching traffic, this decision increases the risk
of collision markedly and will undoubtedly raise the anxiety of the testing officer
if performed during your driving test. Always move as far forward into an intersection
as possible, taking care not to block the path of an oncoming driver who might wish
to turn to his right; from this position you should see most oncoming vehicles,
if however you still are unable to see clearly, remain stationary until it is safe
to turn.
Other good intersection habits to develop are: Avoid turning the front wheels, or
the whole vehicle partially to the right while waiting to turn. If your vehicle
is struck from the rear it will be forced directly into the path of oncoming traffic.
If the vehicle itself is turned it will probably obstruct or deflect the nearest
line of oncoming vehicles as well.
Whenever an appreciable waiting period is likely, secure the vehicle with the handbrake,
change gear to neutral, release the clutch then complete relaxation will be possible.
At traffic control signals, to be ready to start promptly, change into the correct
gear when the amber light appears for cross-traffic; but do not attempt to "jump"
the green light.
At a busy intersection be particularly careful when turning right. An oncoming large
vehicle such as a semi-trailer, van or passenger bus may easily conceal a smaller
vehicle following closely behind. This is prevalent at intersections controlled
by traffic lights where a following driver is hurrying to get through before the
lights change. If you wait within the intersection you will see any smaller vehicles
earlier and will be in a better position to decide on your turn. Look well ahead
before turning.
Entering the traffic stream
This manoeuvre always involves a potential hazard and is the responsibility of the
driver entering, whether from a side road, a driveway or simply pulling out from
the kerb. Signalling is vital and when moving out from the kerb it is compulsory.
When attempting to enter a main road from a side road, wait with the front of your
vehicle at or close to the stop line or edge of the main road carriageway to allow
you to see traffic from your right and left. It may be necessary to adjust your
position if lines of trees or electric power poles block your view, particularly
to your right. If vehicles are parked in the main road near to the intersection
you are entering, it may be beneficial (and safe) to move further forward to improve
your view as the parked vehicles will shield you from vehicles approaching from
your right. It is also desirable that the driver reach the speed of the traffic
flow as soon as possible in order not to obstruct those following.
Also be particularly careful when preparing to turn right at an intersection at
or near a crest on the road, as an oncoming vehicle may remain hidden until it nears
the crest from the other side. If you wait behind the stop line or do not enter
the intersection sufficiently, you will have difficulty in knowing when to move
into your turn; and if an oncoming vehicle is moving very fast and you are already
moving you may not have time to stop to take evasive action. Also if another vehicle
attempts to overtake you on your left, your evasive action may cause an accident.
If you are approaching a "T" junction and intend to turn right from the main road
into a side road you may enter the intersection further still when waiting to turn
as this may give still better visibility.