Can I turn right without a dedicated right-turn lane?
2 Answers
Turning right is not allowed without a dedicated right-turn lane. Generally, a red light does not restrict right turns. However, if there are three signal lights (left turn, straight, and right turn), right turns may not always be permitted. When encountering a red light in a right-turn lane, you must stop. Below are relevant explanations: 1. Road planning: The number of lanes for one-way traffic. Roads with two or three one-way lanes usually do not have right-turn signal lights, and the rightmost lane is typically a shared lane for right turns and going straight. 2. Right-turn restrictions: It is reasonable for left-turn lanes to be on the left and right-turn lanes on the right, but the actual situation can be more complex. For example, in some sections with heavy traffic flow and bus stops close to intersections, the rightmost lane becomes a dedicated straight lane for buses, requiring restrictions on right-turning vehicles.
Sports cars for over a decade, I see this kind of intersection every day. Without a dedicated right-turn lane, of course you can turn right, but you have to watch the traffic lights carefully! If it's a solid green light (circular light), slow down and confirm it's safe to turn. But if there's a red arrow light, that's a no-go—forcing a turn will cost you 6 points and 200 yuan. Special reminder: Be extra vigilant when turning right at night, as many electric bikes tend to dart out from the right side. I almost hit one once. Before turning, remember to check the rearview mirror, and turn on the turn signal 30 meters in advance to alert the cars behind you—no sudden braking maneuvers. Oncoming straight-going vehicles have the right of way, so we must politely let them pass first.
