Cornering skills for new drivers

According to safe driving training experts, the technique for cornering depends heavily on the type of vehicle. Low-ground-clearance vehicles (sedans, sports cars, hatchbacks, etc.) generally find it easier to corner than high-ground-clearance vehicles (SUVs, CUVs, light passenger cars, etc.). However, regardless of the type of vehicle, drivers must adhere to some general rules when navigating a curve.

Operating posture

Adjust your seat higher than when driving on a straight road if the route has many consecutive curves.

Focus your observation.

Before entering a curve, pay close attention and observe carefully, not only to get a sense of the curve ahead but also to know how long or short it is, what the road conditions are like, and the density of traffic in front of and behind your vehicle.

Maintain a comprehensive view of both sides and diagonally ahead, avoiding A-pillar obstructions that block your view when entering or exiting a curve. Simultaneously, continuously check your rearview mirrors to ensure you maintain a safe distance from vehicles behind you.

Reduce speed safely before turning the steering wheel.

This is a common mistake made by most new drivers. Many drivers, due to overconfidence, either don't brake when cornering or only apply the brakes while already cornering. Applying the brakes while cornering is only for race car drivers to save time during the turn; it's not recommended for driving on public roads.

When approaching a curve, the driver should proactively brake and reduce speed to a safe level beforehand, so that the turn is not unexpected due to the vehicle's current speed.

Turning the corner

Once the driver has reduced the vehicle to a safe speed, they should then steer and guide the car through the curve. Drivers should note that they shouldn't make multiple steering adjustments; instead, they should estimate the curvature of the curve, make one steering input, and maintain a fixed steering angle until exiting the curve.

Unless the turn is too long or the initial steering input is too small, the driver can make another slight turn to bring the vehicle onto the correct path. A single steering input maintains the vehicle's balance; excessive steering input can cause the vehicle to spin sideways or veer off the road.

Escape

This is the final step after the car has navigated the curve. Many drivers mistakenly think it's simple, but it requires smooth driving to avoid creating inertial jerks that would cause passengers to sway.

This is also one reason why drivers should only steer once when entering a curve; by the end of the curve, the wheels are almost back to a straight position, allowing the vehicle to change direction smoothly and gently.

If the driver makes too many steering maneuvers, they will have to turn the steering wheel back at the end of the turn, and the car will change direction abruptly, causing passengers to feel like they are swaying from side to side.