Can I turn left in a straight lane when the light is green?
3 Answers
At an intersection with standard three-color traffic signals, you may turn left when the light is green, but must yield to oncoming straight-moving vehicles. When encountering lane signals with arrows, you cannot turn left if the straight arrow is green but the left-turn arrow is red, though you may enter the left-turn waiting area. Below are explanations about traffic signals: 1. Green light: Vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not obstruct straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians who have the right of way. Pedestrians have priority. 2. Yellow light: Vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. 3. Red light: All vehicle movement is prohibited.
To be honest, making a left turn from a straight lane when the light is green is absolutely unacceptable and a major violation of traffic rules. When driving, I always remind myself that each lane has its designated function: straight lanes are for going straight, and left turns must be made from the left-turn lane or the leftmost position. A green light only permits movement in the direction corresponding to the lane. For example, if you force a left turn from a straight lane, you not only risk blocking the straight-moving traffic and causing accidents but also invite a ticket from the police, ranging from fines to points deducted from your license. Urban intersections often have dedicated left-turn signals, so you must wait for the green arrow before proceeding. I once witnessed a new driver attempting this and nearly colliding with oncoming traffic—a painful lesson indeed. In short, safety comes first. Never cut corners; always confirm lane markings and signal indications. If unsure, slow down to observe or choose the correct lane for turning to avoid endangering yourself and others.
I've personally experienced this too. Once, I tried to make a left turn from a straight-through lane when the light turned green, and almost collided head-on with an oncoming straight-moving car. Fortunately, I braked in time to avoid an accident. That moment scared me into a cold sweat. Later, during driving lessons, the instructor repeatedly emphasized: straight lanes are for going straight only; left turns must be made from dedicated left-turn lanes or where lane markings permit. A green light isn't a universal pass—it only governs the direction of your current lane. Breaking the rules isn't just dangerous; you could also be caught on camera or lectured by traffic police. I think young drivers tend to be impulsive, but don't be willful—following the rules is the smart way to save both hassle and money. Remember: lanes are 'locked,' don't take it upon yourself to turn left. Keep your driving path clear, and your safety factor increases dramatically.
