How to prepare for a safe left turn

Turning left requires an early signal, the correct road position and giving way to oncoming traffic and road users crossing the road you are entering. Complete the manoeuvre only when the junction is clear.

Prepare before the junction

Before turning left, look at the road and check your mirrors and blind spot to see whether anyone is overtaking or alongside your vehicle. Signal in good time to inform following traffic, but not so early that your intention could be confused with an earlier turn. Reduce speed gradually and move close to the centre of the carriageway or into the lane indicated by signs, without encroaching on the opposing lane.

If there is a lane for selecting your direction or directional arrows, use it in accordance with the signs. Before entering the junction, give way to oncoming vehicles going straight ahead or turning right, and to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road you are entering. A vehicle indicating does not guarantee that it will slow down: wait until your path is actually clear.

If you cannot complete the turn, wait before entering the junction. Stopping in the middle can block cross-traffic and leave you exposed to oncoming vehicles. When the road is clear, turn along the correct path and join the right-hand side of the new carriageway, unless signs or the road layout indicate otherwise.

• Check your mirrors and blind spot before moving into position.
• Signal in good time and choose the indicated lane.
• Give way to oncoming traffic and to road users crossing the road you are joining.
• Do not enter the junction if you cannot clear it without obstructing others.

Situations that need extra care

On roads with two lanes in each direction, follow the arrows and do not cut across lanes to reach your exit. If there are trams, bus lanes or cycle lanes, check the signs and look out for road users travelling alongside you. A turn may cross several streams of traffic: check each part before moving and do not rely on a single mirror check.

On a slippery surface or in poor visibility, slow down before the bend and keep a smooth line, avoiding sharp braking or steering while turning. If you are unsure of the route, stop somewhere permitted before the junction to check your navigation, not while blocking the carriageway.

To practise priority rules, turns and road positioning,Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers study chapters, timed practice tests and review of incorrect answers.