Can I turn left when there is no left turn signal, only a straight red light?
2 Answers
No, you cannot turn left when there is no left turn signal, only a straight red light. You can turn left when the green arrow pointing left on the traffic signal is illuminated. If there is no left arrow signal and only a green light, you can turn left when the green light is on. Generally, after the red light countdown ends, it is the left turn phase, and after the left turn countdown, the straight phase begins. Some intersections prohibit left turns, so pay attention to the signs. According to traffic regulations, left turns are only permitted at intersections where left turns are allowed, and when the left turn arrow in the left turn lane is green. At intersections with only a straight arrow and no left turn arrow, left turns are prohibited. When the circular signal is green, left turns can be made in the left turn lane unless explicitly prohibited. You can turn left when the green arrow pointing left on the traffic signal is illuminated. If there is no left arrow signal and only a green light, you can turn left when the green light is on. Generally, after the red light countdown ends, it is the left turn phase, and after the left turn countdown, the straight phase begins. Some intersections prohibit left turns, so pay attention to the signs. Legal basis: Article 26 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Traffic signals consist of red, green, and yellow lights. A red light indicates prohibition of passage, a green light indicates permission to pass, and a yellow light serves as a warning. Article 44: When motor vehicles pass through intersections, they shall proceed in accordance with traffic signals, traffic signs, traffic markings, or the direction of traffic police.
I've been driving for over 20 years and encountered this situation countless times. At intersections with only circular red lights and no dedicated left-turn signals, you absolutely cannot turn left when the red light is on! Last time I saw a novice driver making a turn at a red light - snap! The surveillance camera caught it and the ticket was mailed directly to their home. What's even scarier is that they almost collided head-on with an oncoming truck - how dangerous! Just wait patiently for the green light before turning, and make sure to look carefully to confirm all through vehicles have passed before proceeding. Visibility is especially poor during rainy nights, requiring extra vigilance. Ninety percent of intersection accidents are caused by running red lights - arriving home a few minutes late is always better than getting into an accident.
