What is essential to do before making a U-turn?

Before making a U-turn, it is crucial to check for traffic and ensure that it is safe to proceed. This step is vital because it helps to avoid potential collisions with other vehicles or cyclists that may be approaching from either direction. Ensuring that the road is clear allows the driver to execute the turn without endangering themselves or others on the road.

While signaling and proper speed may play roles in a U-turn, the primary concern must always be safety. This means assessing the traffic flow, looking for pedestrians, and confirming that the maneuver can be completed without interfering with the rights of way for other drivers. In many cases, urban areas may have specific regulations about U-turns based on traffic conditions and road signs, reinforcing the importance of checking for safety first. Additionally, completing a U-turn in an unauthorized location or when it's unsafe can lead to traffic violations and accidents, making this preliminary check even more critical.