Driving Lessons Video Series: How To Properly Make An Unprotected Left Turn

During your DMV road test, you know you are going to have to perform both right and left turns. That is a given, but performing an unprotected left turn can be a little nerve-wracking for some people. There are no lights or arrows to designate it is your time to turn. Our Driving Lessons video series continues today, as one of our driving instructors will show you how to properly (and safely) make an unprotected left turn.

Unprotected Left Turn

An unprotected left turn takes place at an intersection where there are no red or green arrows for a left turn. That means when the light turns green for you to make the left turn, you have to check for oncoming traffic. That oncoming traffic also has a green light, so you need to wait for traffic to clear before making your turn.

The Steps

When it comes to making an unprotected left turn, there are simple, but very important steps to follow during the process. Here are the steps to perform a safe unprotected left turn:

• Unprotected left turns exist at intersections where there are no red or green arrows for a left turn.
• When your traffic light is green, the drivers coming towards you see green also.
• Once there is space in front of you, pull out into the intersection.
• While waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, look left, right, in the mirrors and over your left shoulder.
• As oncoming traffic clears, check over your left shoulder one last time as you start the turn.

You can watch everything in action by checking out our driving instructor perform an unprotected left turn here:

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.