Can I go straight in a left-turn lane when the light is green?
3 Answers
You cannot go straight in a left-turn lane when the light is green. Here is more information about green lights: Reason: Going straight in a left-turn lane during a green light violates the "Road Traffic Safety Law" for not driving in the designated lane, which carries a fine of 20-200 yuan. Correct Approach: The correct approach is to continue driving in the specified direction of the original lane (either making a left turn or a U-turn), then look for an opportunity to find your route at the next entrance/exit, or make a U-turn to go around a large circle and return to the original road to continue driving. This is better than receiving a 2-point penalty.
I just got my driver's license a few days ago, and I actually asked my instructor this question. The instructor said that when the left-turn lane has a green light, you absolutely cannot go straight! These lanes are specifically designated based on traffic design, and the green light signal only permits left-turn maneuvers. If you force your way straight, first, you might obstruct the flow of traffic in the straight lane, causing congestion or accidents; second, at busy intersections, oncoming vehicles or pedestrians might be crossing, posing a high risk of collision. I've personally seen someone get fined 200 yuan and lose 3 points for doing this. Safety is even more critical, especially on rainy or foggy days when visibility is poor and accidents are more likely. I recommend that new drivers avoid taking shortcuts. Always check the lane signs in advance and strictly follow the rules—this is key to protecting yourself. Stay patient while driving, plan your route, and you can avoid such troubles. Once it becomes a habit, you'll find traffic flows much more smoothly with fewer incidents.
My driving experience tells me that when you see a green light in the left-turn lane, you should only turn left—going straight is absolutely not allowed! Traffic light signals are matched with lanes: the green light on the left is for left turns, while the straight-through section is controlled by the straight lane's signal. If you force your way straight, not only will you violate traffic rules and risk getting a ticket from the cameras, but you may also disrupt the flow of the intersection and affect other drivers' expected actions. During rush hour in the city, I've observed many drivers causing minor collisions due to not following the rules. The only exception is when there's a clear sign at the intersection indicating that left turns and going straight can share the lane, but such cases are much rarer. The key is to change lanes to the straight-through position in advance—don't wait until the last moment. Developing this awareness not only saves you from fines but also makes the roads safer and more efficient. As someone who frequently drives long distances, I believe rules are not constraints but safeguards, and everyone should start paying attention to the details.
