Driving a pickup truck offers an entirely different driving experience than that of a regular car or SUV. Pickup trucks offer the versatility of being able to haul big and bulky items, as well as the capability of navigating off-road terrain.
If you’re new to driving a pickup truck, the turning process can be a bit intimidating. To help you get familiar with turning your pickup truck, here are some tips on how to do it properly.
Understanding Your Vehicle’s Turning Radius
One of the most important things to understand before turning in a pickup truck is its turning radius. The turning radius is the distance between two points on the same side of a vehicle when it makes an approximately 180-degree turn. Knowing your vehicle’s turning radius can help you plan ahead and make sure that you don’t take too sharp of a turn or end up in an undesired location.
Turning Safely at Low Speeds
When making turns at low speeds, always make sure that your vehicle is centered within your lane before initiating the turn. This is especially important when making right turns since vehicles tend to drift toward the left when taking right turns.
As you start to turn, apply gentle pressure to your steering wheel and increase it gradually as needed. If you find yourself straying off course, counter steer with gentle pressure in the opposite direction.
Making Sharp Turns
When making sharp turns such as U-turns or three-point turns, it’s best to take them at low speeds. Start by positioning your steering wheel straight ahead and then make a wide arc in one direction for about 180 degrees until your vehicle has turned around completely. Make sure not to take too sharp of a turn or else you risk hitting something or getting stuck in an awkward position.
Conclusion:
Now that you know how to properly turn in a pickup truck, you can confidently navigate through tight spaces without worrying about taking too sharp of a turn or getting stuck in an awkward position. Always remember to pay attention to your vehicle’s turning radius and adjust your speed accordingly when making turns so that you can remain safe on the road.
