Drive safely while turning

California Vehicle Code definition:

21801. (a) The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety.

Turning may seem like one of the most basic skills in driving, but it is also one of the most important things that a good driver must do well. Whether you are turning right, left, or reversing direction, you must commit to the turn and let other drivers know what you are going to do. You must also watch what other drivers are doing and keep an eye out for pedestrians on the road and sidewalks.
Make the decision to turn. Before you go, make up your mind and commit to turning. Hesitation can confuse others and put you in a dangerous position.

1. Signal. No matter what direction you are turning, you should always use your turn signal. Start to signal about one city block before you turn. If you are not in a city, then signal about 500 feet before your turn.
 

2. Signal. No matter what direction you are turning, you should always use your turn signal. Start to signal about one city block before you turn. If you are not in a city, then signal about 500 feet before your turn.
 

3. Don't back up. If you miss your turn, keep going until it is safe to turn around and go back. Don't try to make a turn after you have already gone too far.
 

4. Right-hand turns. If you plan to turn right, get close to the right-hand side of the road before you turn. Look left, then right, then left again. Only make your turn when your route is clear of auto and pedestrian traffic.
 

5. Right on red. You can turn right on a red light unless otherwise posted. Always come to a complete stop behind the limit line and proceed with caution. Make sure it is clear before turning and no pedestrian is about to cross. Even if the “Don’t walk” signal is flashing, pedestrians may sometimes run into the crosswalk.
 

6. Left-hand turns. If you plan to turn left, get close to the center line, or median, before you turn. Use the left-turn lane if there is one. Only go when you see that it is safe. The only time you can turn left on a red light is when both the street you are on and the street onto which you are turning are one-way streets.
 

7. U-turns. Make U-turns from the far left lane. Never make a U-turn if you are in front of a fire station, on a one-way street, in a no-passing zone, or if you cannot see clearly in both directions. Do not make a U-turn if there is a "No U-turns" sign posted.

Unsafe turn is the most common Primary Collision factor. Verify on-coming traffic has cleared and no oncoming traffic is in sight. When at an intersection, don’t assume the vehicle approaching will stop when the light turns yellow. Left turn accidents are generally the fault of the left turn vehicle and can easily be prevented. If traffic is backed up and some lanes of traffic stop to yield to you, verify all lanes before entering. On-coming traffic in the furthest lane may not see you approaching and not yield to you even though the other lanes of traffic have.

Drive carefully, and stay safe!