When making a right turn with a combination vehicle, why must the driver avoid swinging wide to the left before turning?

RIGHT TURNS WITH COMBINATION VEHICLES — OFF-TRACKING: Because the trailer wheels track INSIDE the tractor's path (off-tracking), drivers need extra room for right turns.

Correct technique: Turn wide as you COMPLETE the turn (swing out as you go through/finish the turn), keeping the rear of the vehicle close to the curb on the approach; this prevents the trailer from cutting over the curb or hitting objects/vehicles to the right; AVOID swinging wide to the LEFT before starting the turn because: it misleads following drivers (looks like a lane change or left turn); a driver may attempt to pass you on the RIGHT; when you then turn right, that vehicle is trapped between your trailer and the curb — a 'squeeze' that causes serious accidents.

Instead: keep the rear close to the curb on approach; if you must swing wide, do it as you complete the turn while watching your mirrors; block the right lane if necessary rather than inviting a pass on the right; off-tracking and proper turning are key combination vehicle skills tested on the exam and in the road test.