South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

What should a driver do before making a turn?

1. Signal at the last moment

2. Look over their shoulder

3. Check their mirrors and signal early

4. Accelerate before the turn

The correct answer is: Check their mirrors and signal early

Before making a turn, a driver should check their mirrors and signal early to ensure safety and communicate their intentions to other road users. Checking mirrors allows the driver to be aware of surrounding vehicles and pedestrians that may be in the vicinity, reducing the risk of collisions. Signaling early gives other drivers and pedestrians adequate notice of the upcoming turn, which is crucial in preventing confusion and promoting a smoother flow of traffic. This practice demonstrates responsible driving and helps maintain safety on the road. The other actions listed are less effective; signaling at the last moment can catch other drivers by surprise and may not give them enough time to react. Looking over the shoulder is important for blind spots but should be done in conjunction with checking mirrors and signaling; doing it alone doesn’t convey intentions to others. Accelerating before the turn is generally unsafe, as turns require control and slower speeds, which helps the driver navigate the turn more safely and maintain vehicle stability.