How to make a three-point turn

Step by step

1. Move as far to the right as you can, check traffic, and signal left.
2. Turn the wheel sharply to the left and move forward slowly across the road, stopping at the left curb or edge. North Carolina's road test says to stop within several inches of it.
3. Shift to reverse, turn the wheels sharply to the right, check again and back up slowly to the right curb or edge, stopping within several inches.
4. Shift to drive, check traffic and pull forward carefully into the lane, now heading the way you wanted.

When it is allowed

• Use it only if the road is too narrow for a U-turn and you cannot go around the block (Florida's handbook).
• New York's manual says it can be used on a narrow two-way street and that you may be asked to do one on your road test.
• Never make a three-point turn or a U-turn on a curve, on a hill, on a highway, or where a sign prohibits U-turns (Florida's handbook).

Safety checks

• Check both directions before each move; you are crossing a lane of traffic and then backing.
• Go slowly. The turn takes room and time, and the only reason to use it is that the road is narrow.
• If traffic is heavy or you cannot see far enough in both directions, go around the block instead.