When making a left turn at an intersection, which direction should the driver check first?

When making a left turn at an intersection, the driver should first check to the left. This is essential because the left side of the roadway is the direction from which vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists may be approaching. Looking left allows the driver to assess oncoming traffic and ensure that the path is clear before proceeding with the turn. Checking left first also helps to identify any potential hazards, such as vehicles that are maneuvering through the intersection or pedestrians crossing the street.

After checking to the left, it is important to also check for any other potential obstacles that may be present, such as vehicles coming from the right or any pedestrians that might not be immediately visible from the left perspective. However, the priority of first checking left supports safe and responsible decision-making while turning at intersections.