How should a driver handle an unprotected left turn?

When making an unprotected left turn, it is crucial for a driver to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This means that the driver must wait for a safe gap in oncoming vehicles before proceeding with the turn. Unprotected left turns occur when there are no traffic signals indicating that it's safe to turn, making it the driver's responsibility to ensure that both oncoming vehicles and pedestrians are given the right of way.

Yielding ensures collision avoidance and promotes safety for all road users. It allows the driver to assess the speed and distance of oncoming cars, as well as watch for any pedestrians crossing the intersection. This careful approach is essential, especially at busy intersections where the potential for accidents is higher.

In contrast, making the turn quickly without assessing oncoming traffic can lead to dangerous situations, while turning only when the light is green typically applies to protected turns, where the signal indicates it's safe to proceed. Lastly, signaling and turning regardless of other vehicles disregards the fundamental rule of yielding and could lead to significant safety hazards.