Illinois Driving Permit Practice Test

What is the safest way to turn around on a narrow street?

1. Perform a U-turn

2. Perform a three-point turn if safe to do so

3. Drive in reverse

4. Make a left turn

The correct answer is: Perform a three-point turn if safe to do so

The safest way to turn around on a narrow street is to perform a three-point turn if it is safe to do so. A three-point turn allows you to change the direction of your vehicle while occupying minimal space, making it an effective method for narrow environments. This maneuver involves turning the steering wheel in one direction to guide the car to a position that is perpendicular to the street, moving forward, and then steering in the opposite direction to complete the turn. It requires awareness of surrounding traffic and pedestrians to ensure that it can be executed safely. Other methods, such as performing a U-turn, may require more space and can be riskier in narrow streets, particularly if visibility is limited. Driving in reverse could lead to accidents or collisions, especially if the area is congested with vehicles or pedestrians. Making a left turn might not effectively change your traveling direction and could also lead to unsafe situations. Therefore, the three-point turn is the preferred method due to its balance of efficiency and safety in tighter spaces.