Massachusetts Permit Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

The correct approach to take when approaching an intersection is to look left, right, and then left again. This method ensures that you have a comprehensive view of the traffic around you before making a decision to proceed. The initial left glance allows you to see any vehicles approaching from your left side, which is crucial, as they may be moving faster or may not be visible until you are close to the intersection.

By looking to the right next, you check for vehicles coming from that direction. This step is essential for assessing whether it is safe to proceed, especially in cases where visibility might be obstructed. The final glance to the left is a safety measure to confirm that no vehicles are approaching that could pose a risk as you enter the intersection.

This systematic approach helps drivers minimize the risk of accidents, as it encourages thorough scanning of the intersection space. It's particularly important because many collisions at intersections occur due to a lack of awareness of incoming traffic. This methodical process enhances a driver's situational awareness, thereby improving safety for everyone on the road.

While methods like checking mirrors or yielding to oncoming traffic are critical in their own contexts, they don't encapsulate the comprehensive approach to assessing traffic at an intersection as thoroughly as the left-right-left rule