Prepare for green with signal and blind-spot checks
Signal before the turn, check rear and side mirrors, and shoulder-check for cyclists or people approaching the crossing. Enter the proper receiving lane only when the path is clear.
How to Make Right Turns Safely at Traffic Lights
Work through green, yellow, red, bike-lane positioning and the option to wait.
How to Make Right Turns Safely at Traffic Lights
Work through green, yellow, red, bike-lane positioning and the option to wait.
Video breakdown
Study the lesson by section
Each section below follows an explanation or demonstration in the video. Select a section to play from that point, then practise the skill with appropriate supervision.
Yield to pedestrians and repeat checks after waiting
Do not race in front of an approaching pedestrian or assume a flashing pedestrian signal prevents someone entering. If waiting delays the turn, repeat the shoulder check immediately before moving.
Stop on yellow when safe and finish an entered turn carefully
The video distinguishes arriving at yellow from a turn already entered. Stop when you can do so safely; an opposing left-turner may be clearing. When already committed, keep scanning and complete the turn without conflicting with others.
On red, stop fully and yield before improving the view
Check for a no-right-on-red restriction. Stop at the required position and wait for pedestrians. Only move forward cautiously to improve visibility when the crossing is clear, then choose a gap that does not force traffic to brake.
Find who has green and account for farther-lane traffic
Cross traffic stopping may mean another approach has an advance arrow. Do not turn alongside an opposing left-turner based on an assumed lane choice. Also consider a farther-lane vehicle changing into your receiving lane.
Read the bike-lane markings before positioning right
The demonstration discusses broken bike-lane markings near the corner. Position right only where permitted and after confirming no cyclist will be obstructed. A solid bike-lane boundary calls for staying out of that lane on the approach.
You may wait for green when the red-light turn is uncertain
Turning right on red is optional. Make your own safe decision despite honking behind you, then check pedestrians and the blind spot again when green arrives. Keep your intentions clear rather than signalling a movement you do not intend to make.
Practise these skills with a driving instructor
Book a North Vancouver driving lesson with Zula and work on the skills covered in this guide.