Mastering Right Turns: What You Need to Know

What should you do when preparing to make a right turn from the right lane?

• A. Check the rear-view mirror
• B. Shoulder check to the right
• C. Signal your intent to turn
• D. Accelerate before turning

Answer: (B)

When preparing to make a right turn from the right lane, it's crucial to shoulder check to the right. This action ensures that you are aware of any pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles that may be approaching from your right side, which may not be visible in your mirrors. A shoulder check enhances your awareness of the surrounding environment and is a critical step in maintaining safety during the turning process. While signaling your intent to turn is indeed important, it should be done before executing movements and is not the primary action taken immediately before the turn. Checking the rear-view mirror helps you stay informed about the traffic behind you but doesn't provide visibility for hazards directly beside you. Accelerating before making a turn is not advisable, as it can reduce your control and increase the risk of accidents. Ensuring everything is clear on your right side with a shoulder check is essential for a safe and efficient right turn.

When it comes to making a right turn, there’s more to it than just swinging the wheel. You might be surprised to know that the key action isn’t just about signaling or checking your rear view. So, let’s chat about what you really should be doing!

You know, it’s all about awareness. Picture this: you’re in the right lane, ready to turn right at a busy intersection. What do you do first? That’s right – shoulder check to the right! It’s an action that often gets overlooked, but man, it’s incredibly crucial. Why? Because it gives you a clear view of what might be creeping up on your right side that you likely can’t see in your mirrors – think pedestrians, cyclists, or quick-moving cars.

Now, take a moment to think about it. Have you ever been in a rush, trying to execute a turn without doing a proper check? It can be a frightening experience, and it quickly leads to dangerous situations. Imagine the relief of ensuring that everything is clear before making your move—it's like having a safety net!

As you prepare for that right turn, sure, signaling is important. You should definitely signal your intent to turn before you do it. That’s like putting up a friendly flag saying, “Hey folks, I’m making a move here!” But it’s not your first step. You don’t want to signal and then just turn without looking. You wouldn’t just rush into a conversation without knowing who you're talking to, right?

And while we’re on the subject of being prepared, checking your rear-view mirror is good for keeping track of the traffic behind you; however, it’s not going to help you spot that cyclist zipping up on your right. This is where the shoulder check shines! It’s all about maintaining that keen situational awareness.

Now, let’s talk about speed. Some newbies think it’s clever to accelerate just before making a turn. Trust me, that’s a recipe for disaster! Rushing into a corner without control can lead to accidents faster than you can say, “Oops!” Keeping your speed steady ensures you have full control of your vehicle. Remember, safety first—speed can wait.

To sum it up, preparing for a right turn is a vital part of your driving education, especially as you gear up for your Alberta Class 7 License. When you shoulder check to the right, you’re boosting your awareness while also keeping everyone around you safe. So, next time you approach that intersection, remember the importance of that shoulder check. You’ll not only become a better driver, but you’ll also ensure peace of mind for the folks sharing the road with you.

In the end, driving is about building habits that ensure safety and confidence on the road. By mastering the right turn, you’re one step closer to being the skilled, thoughtful driver you aspire to be!