What must a driver do prior to making a turn at a junction?

Before making a turn at a junction, it is essential for a driver to check for oncoming traffic. This action ensures that the driver is fully aware of the road conditions and any potential hazards that may arise from other vehicles approaching the junction. Adequate observation allows the driver to make safe decisions, minimizing the risk of accidents.

Checking for oncoming traffic helps the driver assess whether it's safe to turn. It involves looking for vehicles that may be approaching from the opposite direction or any other traffic that may interfere with the turn. This process is vital for maintaining road safety, as it allows the driver to judge the timing and position of the turn accurately.

Other options are not appropriate actions prior to turning. Speeding up can lead to dangerous situations, especially if there are obstacles or other vehicles that need to be considered. Merging into another lane, unless specifically required for the turn, can cause confusion and hazards when not executed properly. Simply turning on signal lights without checking the traffic may lead to a false sense of security, potentially resulting in a dangerous situation. Hence, checking for oncoming traffic is the most critical step before making any turn at a junction.