When approaching an intersection, which order should you check the quadrants?

When approaching an intersection, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings to ensure safety and make informed driving decisions. The correct order of checking the quadrants is to first assess your own immediate area for any potential hazards, then observe the opposite direction to see if there are vehicles or pedestrians that may interfere with your path, followed by checking to the left and then to the right.

This sequence helps you to gather critical information about the traffic conditions in your immediate vicinity before entering intersections. By checking your own area first, you become aware of any obstacles or signals affecting your immediate lane. Observing opposite traffic allows you to note if vehicles are coming from the other direction that might impact your right of way. Finally, checking left and right ensures that you are fully aware of any potential threats before proceeding.

In contrast, other sequences either neglect to prioritize your own quadrant or misorder the safety checks, which could create unnecessary risks at intersections. Understanding and practicing this order contributes significantly to defensive driving and overall road safety.