What is the proper way to turn?

[Luman]

Approaching a left turn with double turn lanes...which lane is the proper lane to turn from ?

In reading it says you should enter the lane immediately to the right of the center line. Thus it would be assumed that you turn from the inside(furthest left) lane. However, in some cases there is not enough room to clear the center line and complete the turn in your lane without entering the turn lane to the right of you...

Approaching a right turn with double turn lanes...which lane is the proper lane to turn from?

In reading it says you should enter the lane furthest to the right (the curb lane), but again there are numerous instances where there isn't enough room to clear the right curb without entering the turn lane to the left of you...

[RedRollingRoadblock]

This is one of the those thing that the book writers don't and never will understand. Either way you are in a not very good position.

My personal experience is that I can somewhat see the traffic at my trailer but not necessarily next to my cab. With luck, johnny four wheeler will see that you are making a turn and watch for off-track, but never count on it.

I approach these kind of turns with the thought of which way is the safest?

Generally on a right turn I would be in the "left" lane and a left turn I would be in the "right" lane. Then again it is one of the judgment calls that you have to make.

[Luman]

Thanks for the feedback. That is what I was thinking as well...made the most sense.

[pcuthbert]

If the roads have been properly engineered, you will be able to make your turns as the "instructions" suggest.

My way is to make the left turn into the same lane that I am turning from. That means that if I am in the right lane (of a multi turn corner), I turn into the lane closest to the curb. Once into the intersection, pull to the right to help your trailer swing farther right.

If making a left turn from the left lane (of a multiple turn lane), pull straight into the intersection until your turn will just clear the lane to the right (after you turn) and turn hard and sharp. Your trailers should clear the stop line, and you will be in the proper position in the lane you turned into.

Right turns can be more difficult. With experience you will be able to make them just as easily. While approaching the intersection in the right lane, move left to the lane marker. Use your signal to indicate your right turn.

When you can do so safely, and about 1/2 truck/ trailer length from the corner, pull to the left, blocking about 1/2 of the left lane. Continue into the intersection until you will just clear the lane marker of the cross street with your turn. Turn hard and sharp into your lane. Your trailer should follow you without climbing the curb.

Making your right turn this way will prevent a car from pulling up beside you as you make your turn.

[vwaggs]

Since an ideal world rarely exists, taking the lane that will allow you to most safely complete your turn without leaving your lane of travel is best. Usually, this will be the right lane on a double left or the left on a double right. Using this lane, allows you an additional area of intersection space, up to the stop line for oncoming or opposite facing lanes to legally complete your turn without crossing over your designated lane area.