Turning Right from a Major to Minor Road
Turning right from a major to a minor road is a bit more complex than turning left as it requires crossing oncoming traffic
To ensure a safe and smooth turn, it’s essential to use the MSPSL routine – Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed, Look. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step to help you master the manoeuvre.
How to Identify a Junction
Before you even reach the turn, it’s important to recognise the signs of a junction ahead:
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Road Signs:
Look out for warning signs, such as triangular warning signs indicating an upcoming junction or side road.
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Gaps in Buildings:
Notice any large gaps between buildings or fences, which often indicate a minor road.
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Road Markings:
Pay attention to road markings, such as dashed lines or give way signs on the side of the road. Double yellow lines are sometimes around junctions and help identify.
Hazard lines at junctions: At junctions the lines get longer and the gaps shorter indicating that there is a possible hazard ie a junction
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Cars Entering/Exiting:
Watch for vehicles ahead that may be turning in or out of the minor road, as this is a good indicator that the junction is approaching.
MSPSL Routine for Turning Right
M (Mirrors)
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Check your interior mirror and your right door mirror before signalling. This ensures you're aware of any vehicles behind you, especially those that may be attempting to overtake.
S (Signal)
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Signal right well in advance so that other road users are aware of your intentions. Avoid signalling too early before passing any other junctions or side roads to prevent confusion.
P (Position)
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Adjust your position to align with the white centre lines, but make sure not to cross over them. This positioning signals your intent to turn right and allows vehicles behind to pass on your left, if the road is wide enough.
S (Speed)
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Gradually reduce your speed to about 10-12 mph as you approach the turn. If the road is narrow or there’s oncoming traffic, slow down further to 5-6 mph.
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If there is no oncoming traffic, shift into 2nd gear and bring the clutch up for a smooth turn.
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If traffic is approaching, time your approach so that the vehicle passes before you reach the turn. If that’s not possible, you may need to stop, with the front of your car aligned with the centre lines of the minor road you are turning into.
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L (Look)
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Look ahead into the road you are turning (pedestrians and other hazards) into and judge the oncoming traffic. If there is a clear gap, proceed with the turn. A useful guideline is that if you could walk across the road, it’s safe to drive across (for a 30mph road). If in doubt, wait.
Steering Control
Avoid Steering Too Slowly or Crossing Hands:
Practice the pull and push method by steering from the top of the wheel downwards.
For right turns, remember to let go of the wheel with your left hand and guide the turn with your right.
Both hands should work together, mirroring each other for smooth control.
READ More information about steering a car...
Correct Gear for the Junction
Completing the MSPSL routine in good time will help you choose the correct gear.
Briefly touch the gear lever (without looking down) to verify which gear you’re in as you approach the junction, ensuring you select the right gear before making the turn.
Key Tips for a Smooth Right Turn
Learn the MSPSL routine as soon as possible to help you carry out a smooth and safe approach.
Follow the steps in order, as this ensures a well-timed and efficient turn.
Slow down early:
Many learners slow down too late, which causes a rushed turn.
Reducing your speed in good time will give you more control and allow you to think clearly as you approach the junction.
Avoid Common Mistakes
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Corner Cutting:
Avoid turning too early, which could cause your vehicle to cross into the wrong side of the road.
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Swan Necking:
Don’t turn too late after the centre lines, as this could cause you to hit the kerb. If you delay your turn, vehicles behind you may mistake your intentions and attempt to pass.
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Pedestrians:
Rule H2 - Rule for drivers, motorcyclists, horse drawn vehicles, horse riders and cyclists
At a junction you should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning.
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Cyclists:
Always double-check your right door mirror before turning to ensure no cyclists are overtaking you. When in slow-moving traffic, be extra mindful of cyclists approaching from behind.
