Arkansas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Practice Test

When making a right turn in a commercial vehicle, how should you position the vehicle?

1. Turn wide to the left as you complete the turn

2. Stay close to the right curb

3. Turn wide to the right

4. Make a sharp right turn

The correct answer is: Turn wide to the left as you complete the turn

When making a right turn in a commercial vehicle, turning wide to the left as you complete the turn is important for several reasons. Large vehicles, due to their size and length, have larger turning radii compared to standard passenger vehicles. By initially positioning the vehicle towards the left lane before executing the right turn, the driver helps to prevent the rear of the vehicle from hitting the curb or other obstacles on the right side. This approach allows the driver to maneuver through the turn safely, ensuring that there is enough clearance on the right for the back end of the trailer or vehicle. It also helps to signal to other road users that a broad turn is being made, improving overall safety for everyone involved. Staying close to the right curb could lead to accidentally hitting the curb or causing a collision with any obstacles or pedestrians. Turning wide to the right can also lead to the rear end swinging out into another lane, which is particularly hazardous in traffic. Making a sharp right turn would be inappropriate for larger vehicles and could result in losing control or causing an accident. Therefore, making a wide left turn to facilitate a safe right turn is the correct practice.