How to Turn Left at an Intersection Safely (Video Guide)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Yielding to Oncoming Traffic

  Turning on a circular green (not arrow) signal without yielding can cause a collision.

  Always wait for a safe gap.

• Not Checking for Pedestrians

  Drivers often forget to look for pedestrians in the crosswalk of the road they’re on and the crosswalk of the road they’re turning into.

  Do a quick shoulder check before turning.

• Turning Too Wide

  Entering the wrong lane or swinging wide happens when speeding.

  Slow down and stay within your lane.

• Turning Left While a Vehicle Next to You Turns Right

  Paths can overlap and cause a crash. Wait and watch the vehicle beside you. Turn left from the leftmost lane unless signs indicate otherwise.

  Wait and watch the vehicle beside you. Turn left from the leftmost lane unless signs indicate otherwise.

Left Turn from a Dedicated Left-Turn Lane

1. Enter the left-turn lane early
2. Check mirrors and shoulder
3. Turn on a green arrow signal if available
4. Otherwise, turn on a circular green signal or flashing yellow left-arrow signal after yielding to oncoming traffic
5. Stay in the correct lane

Left Turn Without a Dedicated Lane

1. Move into the intersection on green (wheels straight)
2. Yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians
3. Turn only when it’s clear