What should a driver do in preparation for a turn at an intersection?

Signaling intentions well in advance before making a turn at an intersection is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. It communicates to other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, what the driver plans to do. This advance notice allows others to react appropriately, maintaining the flow of traffic and reducing the risk of accidents.

Using turn signals gives following drivers, as well as those at the intersection, the information they need to respond to the driver's actions. It helps prevent confusion or unexpected situations that could arise if other road users are unaware of the driver's intentions. Signaling early also allows for better integration into traffic, as other drivers can anticipate the maneuver and adjust their speed and position accordingly.

While reducing speed is essential for making a safe turn, it should be done in a controlled manner rather than significantly. Checking both left and right sides is vital, but focusing only on those directions without considering the full environment can be insufficient. Turning without signaling may seem acceptable when no cars are present, but it is still a risky practice as pedestrians or cyclists can be obscured from view and may not realize that a vehicle is about to turn.

Prioritizing communication through signaling fosters a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.