What is the first rule of a safe and legal turn?

The first rule of a safe and legal turn is to move into the proper lane well before the turn. This is crucial because positioning your vehicle in the correct lane allows for a safer maneuver and helps inform other drivers of your intentions. By selecting the appropriate lane ahead of time, you reduce the risk of abrupt lane changes or conflicts with other vehicles and pedestrians, which are common when making turns.

This practice also grants you the necessary space to complete the turn safely and allows you to better assess the surrounding traffic conditions. Proper lane positioning is essential not only for your safety but also for the safety of others on the road. It's important to be aware of lane markings and to signal your intentions, but initially getting into the correct lane sets the foundation for executing a safe turn.