Can I turn left when the light is red?

[MacChloe]

When facing a circular red light, you are not allowed to make a left turn. You may only turn right provided that you do not interfere with the passage of released vehicles or pedestrians. According to traffic regulations: When the green light is on: vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not obstruct the passage of through vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on: vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. When the red light is on: vehicle passage is prohibited. At intersections without dedicated non-motor vehicle or pedestrian crossing signals, non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle traffic signals. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed as long as they do not interfere with the passage of released vehicles or pedestrians.

[AndrewAnn]

I've been driving for over a decade, and making a left turn at a red light is something you really can't be careless about. I remember one time at an intersection, the light was red in front of me, I wanted to turn left but didn't dare move, then I saw another car force the turn anyway, nearly colliding with oncoming traffic, and getting pulled over by the police and fined. The general rule is you absolutely cannot turn left at a red light, unless there's a dedicated left-turn green arrow or a sign indicating you can turn but must yield. Safety is the most important thing - if an accident happens, you're fully at fault. You need to make it a habit when driving to stop completely at red lights, and only consider your direction when the light turns green. I recommend new drivers pay extra attention to the type of traffic signal - don't try to save time.

[DelClara]

As a driving instructor, I must emphasize that left turns are strictly prohibited at red lights. Traffic laws clearly state that a red light is a stop signal, prohibiting vehicle movement including left turns. Only under specific circumstances, such as when a left-turn arrow is green or explicit permission signs are present, can a left turn be made while ensuring safety. From a legal perspective, illegal left turns can result in point deductions, fines, and even liability for accidents. In my teaching, I frequently remind students to obey traffic signals and avoid impulsive driving. Additionally, regional variations in rules are minimal, with the core principle being 'stop at red, go at green'—left turns require extra caution to ensure intersection safety. Developing the habit of checking traffic signals can prevent many troubles.

[MackenzieLee]

Hey buddy, to put it simply, making a left turn on red is generally not allowed. Traffic rules are quite strict these days - when the red light is on, it means stopping in all directions, including left turns. The only exceptions are if you see a green arrow pointing left, or there's a special sign at the intersection permitting the turn (but you must yield to through traffic). Back in college, I didn't pay attention to these rules when driving, but I learned my lesson later because those tickets really hurt. Remember, safety comes first - always double-check before moving when waiting at a light.