Confusion Over Right Turns

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31005, 10 March 1966, Page 16

Confusion Over Right Turns

It is evident from recent court cases and from correspondence in “ The Press ” that some confusion exists over the correct method of making a right turn in traffic. As the law now stands, the motorist in a 30-m.p.h. area is required to keep just to the left of the centre of the road before making a right turn. In a 55-m.p.h. area he must pull over to the left and wait till the road is clear in both directions before turning to the right—unless the roadway is laned, when the motorist, as in a 30-m.p.h. area, has to make his turn from a position just to the left of the centre line. The reasons for each ruling are well understood by experienced drivers, but breaches will continue while the causes of confusion remain. The Automobile Associations, understandably concerned, are pressing for a uniform rule. A single rule for turning to the right would probably require the driver, in all circumstances, to make his turn from a position just to the left of the centre line. This would depart from present practice only in 55m.p.h. areas where the roads are not laned. The danger in these areas is the obstruction of the view of other road users, who might be travelling at quite high speeds, by a car stopped near the centre of the road. If such a rule is introduced, it should be preceded by a campaign to educate the motoring public. Many new warning signs would also be needed.