Before making a turn in a commercial vehicle, what should you check for?

When preparing to make a turn in a commercial vehicle, it's essential to check for traffic in all directions. This includes looking for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and any potential obstacles that may be present both in front and alongside the vehicle. The larger size of commercial vehicles makes them less maneuverable and more challenging to control, so gaining a full understanding of the surroundings is critical for safety.

By checking traffic in all directions, the driver can ensure that there are no hazards that would interfere with the turn. For instance, left turns often require extra caution because of oncoming traffic, while right turns necessitate awareness of cyclists and pedestrians that might be on the right side of the vehicle. This comprehensive check helps to avoid accidents and ensures compliance with safety regulations, making it a vital step before executing any turn.