Why are left turns considered high risk?

Why are left turns considered high risk?

• A. They require crossing oncoming traffic lanes.
• B. They are easy.
• C. They can be done without signaling.
• D. They are only allowed on one-way streets.

Answer: (A)

Left turns are high risk because you have to cross paths with vehicles coming toward you. As you turn, you enter the lane that opposing traffic is using, and any misjudgment of how fast or how far those vehicles are can lead to a collision, including head-on hits or side impacts with vehicles that arrive earlier or sooner than you expected. The danger is multiplied by limited visibility at intersections, possible pedestrians or cyclists crossing, and other turning vehicles that can obscure your view. To reduce the risk, you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, wait for a safe gap, and signal clearly before beginning the turn. When a protected left turn or a dedicated left-turn lane is available, use it and turn into the correct lane after you’ve safely crossed the intersection. This all explains why crossing oncoming traffic makes left turns riskier than other maneuvers.

Left turns are high risk because you have to cross paths with vehicles coming toward you. As you turn, you enter the lane that opposing traffic is using, and any misjudgment of how fast or how far those vehicles are can lead to a collision, including head-on hits or side impacts with vehicles that arrive earlier or sooner than you expected. The danger is multiplied by limited visibility at intersections, possible pedestrians or cyclists crossing, and other turning vehicles that can obscure your view. To reduce the risk, you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, wait for a safe gap, and signal clearly before beginning the turn. When a protected left turn or a dedicated left-turn lane is available, use it and turn into the correct lane after you’ve safely crossed the intersection. This all explains why crossing oncoming traffic makes left turns riskier than other maneuvers.