Driving

How to Properly Turn on Roads in Illinois

Illinois laws regulate and detail how drivers are supposed to act in traffic. These are so-called “Rules of the Road“, part of which explains how to properly and lawfully turn on highways and roads.

Right Turns

When making a right turn, a driver should:

  • Give a right-turn signal from the proper turning lane.
  • Obey traffic signs and signals.
  • Yield the right of way to pedestrians, emergency vehicles and other vehicles in the intersection.
  • Check traffic approaching from the left.
  • Follow the general curve of the curb while making the right turn. The driver should stay as close as possible to the curb.
  • Turn into the right-hand lane of the roadway the driver is entering.
  • Be aware that trucks and buses may need more space to make a right-hand turn.

Left Turns

When making a left turn, a driver should:

  • Give a left-turn signal from the proper turning lane.
  • Obey traffic signs and signals.
  • Yield the right of way to pedestrians, emergency vehicles and other vehicles in the intersection.
  • Check all approaching traffic.
  • Point the wheels straight ahead until starting to make the turn.
  • Complete the turn into the lane closest to the intended direction.

Changing Lanes

When moving a vehicle from the right-hand lane to the left-hand lane, drivers should check for traffic behind the vehicle and to the left by turning their head and visually assessing the area. If the area is clear, the driver should give the left-turn signal and carefully move into the left lane.

When moving a vehicle from the left-hand lane to the right-hand lane, drivers should check for traffic behind the vehicle and to the right by turning their head and visually assessing the area. If the area is clear, the driver should give the right turn signal and carefully move into the right lane.

See also: Illinois lane usage.

U-Turns

Drivers must not turn around on curves and hills unless they can see for at least 500 feet in all directions. Municipalities may prohibit U-turns on some roadways.

Hazard Signal

Both turn signals may be flashed at the same time by a driver to indicate a disabled or parked vehicle.

Two-Way Left Turn Lane

The two-way left turn lane provides a safe area for cars making left turns at intersections or for cars turning left into or out of a drive located in the middle of the block.

Turns and Lane Changes in Construction Zones

A driver should pay special attention to signs, barricades and pavement markings when turning or changing lanes. See Illinois regulations for driving in construction zones for more information.

This article about How to Properly Turn on Roads in Illinois was last updated in 2024. If any of our information is incomplete or outdated please let us know. Thank you!