How to Properly Reverse a Car for Beginner Drivers
The correct way to make a U-turn is often sought for tips to avoid endangering oneself or other drivers. For beginner drivers, making a U-turn can indeed be quite difficult and requires more concentration and the right technique to be safer.
If you want to make a U-turn in the middle of the road, there are two techniques that can be used, namely the three-point turn and the U-turn. These two methods can be applied depending on the conditions present while you are driving.
Three Point Turn Technique
As the name suggests, the three-point turn or forward-backward technique is a way to make a U-turn by stopping at three points. This is because you cannot make a U-turn directly in one attempt. Therefore, the correct way to make a U-turn is by using this three-point turn technique.
To do this, you need to set the transmission to first gear and then turn the steering wheel opposite to the position of the car; for example, if the car is on the left, turn the steering wheel to the right, then press the gas pedal while turning the steering wheel to the right.
After that, you need to switch the transmission to reverse gear and press the gas pedal while turning the steering wheel to the left. Then switch the transmission back to first gear, press the gas pedal, and turn the steering wheel to the right. You can use the hand to hand technique when turning the steering wheel.
U Turn Technique
This technique is certainly easier than the three-point turn because with a U-turn, you can make a U-turn directly. This technique is the correct way to make a U-turn if you want to go to the opposite lane than before.
To perform this technique, you need to position the car closer to the road divider and then set the transmission to first gear. Do not rush to press the gas pedal; first stop the engine's movement by pressing the brake and clutch pedals, then proceed when the road is clear.
Once you are sure the road is clear, slowly release the brake and turn the steering wheel properly. Pay attention to motorcycles on your right, as they usually make U-turns faster, which can be dangerous.
Other Things to Consider
In addition to the correct way to make a U-turn, you also need to pay attention to your surroundings to ensure safe driving, especially on busy roads. The first and foremost thing to consider is that you are indeed in an area that allows U-turns.
If you ignore this, you could receive a ticket for violating traffic rules. Equally important, ignoring traffic signs can also endanger other drivers.
Don't forget to turn on your sign lights to signal to drivers behind or in front of you. Turn on the sign lights according to the direction you will be turning, left or right, and make sure not to reverse it!
Pay attention to the space when making a U-turn, whether it is sufficient or not. Usually, when making a U-turn to the opposite direction, there will be many other drivers who will also be turning. Stay orderly; it's okay to wait longer as long as it remains safe.
Read also: Drifting 101: From Definition to Techniques for Doing It
That is the correct way to make a U-turn that you can learn as a beginner driver. Don't forget to always obey traffic rules. Also, check the condition of your car when you are going to travel long distances.
Author: Nisa Maulan Shofa
