When preparing to make a left turn, what should a driver keep in mind for safety?

When preparing to make a left turn, it is essential for a driver to keep the wheels straight until they are ready to complete the turn. This practice helps maintain control of the vehicle and reduces the risk of skidding or losing traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on slippery surfaces. Keeping the wheels straight allows the driver to focus on the surrounding traffic and ensure that it is safe to turn, instead of potentially veering into oncoming traffic or other hazards.

This approach also helps signal to other drivers that the vehicle is preparing to turn. By maintaining a straight wheel position until the turn is initiated, the driver can better gauge the space and timing needed to make the turn safely. In contrast, turning the steering wheel sharply can lead to loss of control, and quickly accelerating may increase the chances of an accident if the driver doesn't have a clear path. Additionally, relying solely on the rearview mirror overlooks the important need to check other mirrors and blind spots to ensure the way is clear, which is vital for safety when making any turn.