When turning in an urban setting, which steps help protect pedestrians?

• A. Signal early, check mirrors and blind spots, make a wide turn, and maintain safe clearance for pedestrians.
• B. Signal late, disregard blind spots, make a tight turn, and minimize pedestrian clearance.
• C. Stop at the curb, then reverse into traffic.
• D. Use a sharp, narrow turn with pedestrians in the crosswalk.

Answer: (A)

When turning in an urban setting, the priority is to communicate your intent clearly, stay aware of pedestrians, and give them space as you maneuver. Signaling early tells pedestrians and other drivers what you plan to do, reducing surprise and potential conflicts. Checking mirrors and blind spots helps you spot pedestrians who may be near the curb, in the crosswalk, or just out of view, so you don’t move into their path. Making a wide turn keeps the front of the bus away from people who are crossing or waiting at the curb, and it reduces the risk of cutting into the space a pedestrian needs. Maintaining safe clearance throughout the turn ensures you don’t crowd a crosswalk or encroach on a pedestrian’s space.

In urban areas, pedestrians can appear quickly and in close proximity to the vehicle, so these steps—early signaling, thorough scanning, and giving ample turning room—are essential for safety. Conversely, signaling late, ignoring blind spots, making tight turns, or trying to minimize clearance all increase the chance of striking someone. Stopping at the curb and reversing into traffic isn’t a safe or practical way to maneuver in busy streets, and sharp, narrow turns with pedestrians in the crosswalk put pedestrians at serious risk.