Reversing around a corner & turning around
Precise manoeuvring with all-round observation
Reversing – with the utmost care
When reversing and turning, the StVO requires that any danger to others is ruled out (§ 9(5) StVO). If necessary, get someone to guide you. In the exam this means: walking pace, all-round checks before moving off and throughout the task – and stop at once if someone approaches.
Reversing around a corner to the right
- Indicate right, stop parallel about one car length past the corner, 30–50 cm from the curb.
- All-round check with shoulder checks left and right, reverse gear.
- Reverse slowly and straight, looking through the rear window and right mirror.
- When the curve starts level with your right rear wheel: steer right steadily.
- Adjust steering to the curb – keep the distance in the right mirror constant.
- Parallel to the new curb: straighten, reverse another 1–2 car lengths.
- Stop, parking brake, indicator off.
The front swings out!
While you reverse to the right, your front swings to the left into the road. So also watch ahead and to the left for oncoming traffic and cyclists. If someone comes: stop and let them pass. Touching or mounting the curb counts as a mistake.
Around the corner in the simulator
Train the steering point and a constant curb distance – with cross traffic that forces you to stop.
This specific scenario is not implemented in the web edition yet. gfa_reverse_corner
Turning around: what is required?
When turning around you turn the car on the road, usually in three moves: forwards – backwards – forwards. Alternatively, the examiner may ask you to use a driveway or side street. What matters is observation, calm speed and that the wheels don't touch the curb.
Three-point turn
- Stop on the right, mirrors and left shoulder check, indicate left.
- Move off slowly, briskly apply full left lock.
- Just before the opposite curb, steer right and stop.
- All-round check, reverse with full right lock.
- Just before the curb, steer left and stop.
- All-round check, drive forwards with left lock onto the right side.
Turning is prohibited here – as on motorways and expressways
Steering while stationary? Better while rolling
Steer while the car rolls slowly whenever possible – it spares the tyres and power steering and looks confident. Use the full width of the road, then three moves are enough. An extra move is better than touching the curb.
Practise turning around
Turn around in a narrow street – with parked cars and traffic appearing suddenly.
This specific scenario is not implemented in the web edition yet. gfa_turnaround
You are reversing around a corner to the right. What must you pay particular attention to?
- The front of the car swings left into the road.
- Only the right door mirror matters.
- You stop for oncoming traffic or pedestrians.
Check answer
The front of the car swings left into the road.
You stop for oncoming traffic or pedestrians.
When reversing to the right, the front swings to the left. So observe all around – not only the right mirror – and stop if someone approaches.