Arkansas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Practice Test

Which of these practices is important for maintaining control during a right turn in a commercial vehicle?

1. Turning wide to the left as you go through the intersection

2. Making sure to not swing widely

3. Keeping as close to the left curb as possible

4. Turning wide to the right before completing the turn

The correct answer is: Turning wide to the left as you go through the intersection

The practice of turning wide to the left while going through the intersection is important for maintaining control during a right turn in a commercial vehicle because it allows for better clearance and visibility. Commercial vehicles are often larger and require more space to maneuver compared to normal passenger vehicles. By turning wide to the left, the driver can reduce the risk of hitting obstacles, curbs, or vehicles that might be present on the right side of the road. This practice helps ensure that the trailer follows the correct path without encroaching on adjacent lanes or sidewalks. While it may seem that keeping close to the left curb could help with control, it can actually create risks if the vehicle is too close to the edge, potentially leading to collisions. Making sure not to swing widely is relevant for control, and it’s crucial to avoid excessively wide movements that could endanger pedestrians and other vehicles. Lastly, while turning wide to the right before completing the turn may seem beneficial, it can actually lead to problems with clearance and visibility, as it increases the chance of hitting objects on the left side of the vehicle. Thus, the method of turning wide to the left not only helps manage the vehicle's path but is also a strategic way to navigate turns safely and effectively in larger vehicles