Can the rightmost straight lane turn right?
3 Answers
The rightmost straight lane cannot turn right. According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law": When a motor vehicle passes through an intersection controlled by traffic signals, it shall proceed in accordance with the following provisions: At an intersection with marked guide lanes, enter the guide lane according to the desired direction of travel. The function of a single solid yellow line is to prohibit vehicles from crossing or driving on the line in both directions. Single solid yellow lines are mostly marked on roads with only one lane in one direction or one motor vehicle lane and one non-motor vehicle lane, or on sections where there are other dangers that require prohibiting overtaking. The function of double solid yellow lines is the same as that of single solid yellow lines, also prohibiting vehicles from crossing or driving on the line in both directions. Double solid yellow lines are mostly marked on roads with two or more motor vehicle lanes in one direction and without a physical central divider. Yellow solid and dashed lines are generally marked before and after bridges and on sections where U-turns are allowed, and can also serve to separate lanes in both directions. Vehicles are prohibited from crossing or driving on the solid yellow line side, while temporary crossing or turning is permitted on the dashed line side.
Generally speaking, the rightmost straight lane is not for right turns, as it's marked with a straight arrow, allowing vehicles to go forward only. Having driven for over a decade, I've seen many people take shortcuts by forcing a turn, only to be caught on camera for violations, resulting in points deducted and fines. What's more dangerous is that such maneuvers can easily lead to rear-end or side collisions, especially at busy intersections, because your sudden right turn can catch straight-moving vehicles behind you off guard. It's best to switch to a dedicated right-turn lane in advance, where there are often arrows or traffic signals for guidance. If the intersection is specially designed to allow exceptions, such as with additional signs indicating permitted turns, such cases are extremely rare. Pay extra attention at highway exits or urban intersections—slow down and observe the road before acting. Make it a habit to check signs; don't let momentary impatience cause trouble. Safe driving is what matters most—it's better to spend a little extra time taking a detour than to risk an accident. Remember the rule: lane arrows dictate direction—don't change it arbitrarily.
When I was learning to drive, I noticed this rule, and the instructor repeatedly emphasized that straight lanes must never be used for turning. As a beginner, I once tried to make a right turn from the far-right lane and almost hit a pedestrian, got honked at by the car behind me, and later received a 100-yuan fine. Remember, right turns must be made from dedicated lanes with clear turning arrows; otherwise, it’s illegal. Navigation tools like Gaode often remind you about lane selection, so it’s good to rely on them. In cities, especially at chaotic intersections, mistakes are easier to make, so I slow down early to check road markings and traffic lights. Using a straight lane for turning isn’t just unsafe—it can also cause traffic jams. It might feel troublesome at first, but once you get used to it, things go much smoother. Keep a steady driving mindset. Practice your observation skills—it protects you and shows consideration for others. Road design is meant for order; don’t disrupt it.
