1. Left Turn:
- Signal and Check: Turn on the left turn signal well in advance to alert other road users. Check your mirrors and blind spots for any vehicles or obstacles in your path.
- Wide Turn: Start your left turn from the right side of the lane to give yourself a wider turning radius. This helps avoid hitting curbs or running over pedestrians.
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed gradually as you approach the turn. Slowing down allows you to maintain control and avoid jackknifing.
- Turn Gently: Make the left turn smoothly and gradually, avoiding sudden or jerky movements. Keep the steering wheel turned in the left direction until you're out of the turn.
- Stay Wide: After completing the turn, stay in the right side of your lane to prevent drifting into oncoming traffic.
2. Right Turn:
- Signal and Check: Turn on the right turn signal and check your mirrors and blind spots for vehicles or obstacles in your path.
- Stay Right: Start your right turn from the right side of the lane. This position helps maintain a wide turning radius and prevents rear-end collisions with vehicles behind you.
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed gradually as you approach the turn. Slowing down ensures better control and prevents potential rollovers.
- Turn Gently: Make the right turn smoothly and gradually. Avoid sharp or sudden turns to maintain stability and prevent tipping over.
- Stay Right: After making the turn, stay in the right side of your lane to avoid drifting into oncoming traffic.
Additional Tips:
- Practice and Experience: Mastering turns in a tractor-trailer requires practice and familiarity with the vehicle's handling characteristics.
- Pay Attention: Always be aware of the position of your trailer when turning to avoid jackknifing or hitting obstacles.
- Avoid Obstacles: Be cautious when making turns near curbs, sidewalks, and other obstacles to prevent damage or accidents.
- Communication: Use your CB radio or other communication devices to inform other drivers of your intentions, especially when making turns in busy traffic situations.
Remember, safety should always be a priority when operating a tractor-trailer. Take your time, signal clearly, and be mindful of your surroundings to make safe left and right turns on the road.
