A hook turn, also known as a two-stage turn, allows a driver or cyclist to turn left (in left hand drive countries) or right (in right hand drive countries) at specific intersections without obstructing oncoming bus rapid transit or light rail traffic that has a green light. Hook turns are common for drivers in Australia and common for cyclists in other parts of the world. This wikiHow will show you how to execute a hook turn. [1] X Research source
Steps
Method 1
Method 1 of 2:
As a Driver
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Check if a hook turn must be executed. Most intersections in the United States do not use hook turns for drivers, though there are some. There will usually be a sign reading "LEFT TURN FROM RIGHT ONLY" (in left hand drive countries) or "RIGHT TURN FROM LEFT ONLY" (in right hand drive countries) indicating whether a hook turn must be executed.
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Move into the right turn lane (in left hand drive countries) or the left turn lane (in right hand drive countries). In places where you must complete hook turns, this lane will be marked with a double turn arrow, while the inside lanes will be marked with a straight arrow.Advertisement
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Signal the direction of your turn. In countries where oncoming traffic is on the left, signal left. In countries where oncoming traffic is on the right, signal right.
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Wait for the green light. When the light turns green, pull into the intersection. Wait in the marked space, keeping your signal on.
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Watch the light of cross traffic. In some cases, there might be a dedicated turn signal; in others, you just have to watch the signal for the cross traffic.
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Complete the turn when cross traffic get their green light. Finish the turn to avoid blocking traffic for too long. If there is a dedicated turn phase you may complete the hook turn when you get a green arrow.Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:
As a Cyclist
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Pull to the crosswalk button. Follow the cycle path or cycle lane until you reach the crosswalk. Hook turns can only be performed at the crosswalk. Make sure to keep to the left in countries that use left hand traffic and to the right in countries that use right hand traffic.
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Activate the pedestrian signal or stand on the cycle marking. This will tell the traffic controller that there is someone waiting to cross.
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Ride to the marked space on the green light or upon seeing the "WALK" signal. If there is no marked space at the intersection, then wait on the curb. Be sure to watch out for drivers turning left or right when crossing.
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Activate the pedestrian signal in the other direction. This will allow you to complete the hook turn on the next phase.
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Complete the turn on the next green light or "WALK" signal. When cross traffic gets their green, you may finish the hook turn. Be sure to watch out for drivers turning left or right.Advertisement
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