Much of driving is about being aware of the other vehicles around you, especially when turning left or right. So here are 3 tips for a safer, more courteous turn.
1. Don't Brake Until Signaling
Until you use your signal, the only person who knows you're about to make a turn is you. So when you decide to slam on your brakes before using your signal, you're just asking for a fender bender, especially if there's no dedicated turn lane. In Florida, it's actually a law for drivers to use their signal 100 feet before turning.
"A signal of intention to turn right or left must be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning...No person may stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear, when there is opportunity to give such signal."
"A signal of intention to turn right or left must be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning...No person may stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear, when there is opportunity to give such signal."
2. Move Into the Turn Lane As It Begins
If there's a turn lane - and you've signaled and slowed to a safe turning speed- move into the turn lane as it begins. Don't wait until halfway down to fully move your vehicle out of the way of fast-flowing traffic. It might not seem like a big deal to you, but the people behind you are ready for you to get over so they can move along. Moseying along for 20 feet with half your vehicle in both lanes is only going to cause frustration for other drivers.
3. Watch for Pedestrians When Turning Onto the Main Road
For example, when you're leaving a neighborhood or a parking lot and turning onto the main road, make sure you stop before the sidewalk crossing. Oftentimes drivers will pull right up to the road without considering whether or not there are pedestrians to the left or right. Large vehicles, like pickup trucks and SUVs, make it more difficult to see pedestrians at these types of turns.
If you were injured in a car accident, whether it was your fault or not, call Wilkes & Mee today. Our Jacksonville car accident lawyers will investigate every avenue of your case and quickly work towards full compensation.