“After mirror, signalling and position, you need to consider your speed. Your speed will depend on the junction layout, type of road you are on and the actions of other road users.
For a basic left turn, you will need to go very slowly, as low as 5 mph and select second gear. The most important point is to reduce speed and change gear before you start to turn the corner. You will normally need to use the foot brake to slow down before changing gear.
Make a quick check of your mirrors again before slowing. A good trick is to make the car feel as if it’s going too slow on the approach and then ease off the brake, either slightly or completely, when you change gear. After slowign down, change to second gear before arriving at the junction.
One of the most common problems with left turns is excessive speed on approach. Just a few mph too fast can make a big difference. Ideally your speed will be spot-on. However, if you make the mistake of going a bit too slow, that will be easier to fix later.
The key points are:
– Your speed is determined by the situation – Factors affecting it include the junction layout, the type of road and actions of other road users.
– Go very slowly and select second gear.
– Reduce speed and change gear before the corner.
– Making the car feel too slow will make the approach easier.
– Approaching too fast is a common problem.”
