Minnesota Blue Card Practice Test

Why is it essential to avoid left hand turns across opposing traffic?

1. They are illegal

2. They increase the risk of collisions

3. They slow down traffic

4. They are not common

The correct answer is: They increase the risk of collisions

Avoiding left-hand turns across opposing traffic is crucial because they significantly increase the risk of collisions. When a driver makes a left turn in front of oncoming vehicles, they must judge the speed and distance of those vehicles accurately. If the judgment is off, it can lead to serious accidents, as the turning vehicle may be struck by oncoming traffic. This maneuver often requires the driver to focus on multiple directions at once—watching for vehicles coming from the left while also keeping an eye on any potential pedestrian movements. Additionally, these types of turns can create confusion for other road users and can lead to higher incident rates at intersections, contributing to a more hazardous driving environment. While some left turns may be legally permissible, the inherent dangers associated with the maneuver highlight why drivers should seek safer alternatives, such as turning at designated intersections with traffic signals or using dedicated left-turn lanes when available.