Can You Go Straight in a Left-Turn Lane?

[EvaLynn]

You cannot go straight in a left-turn lane. Whether this behavior results in penalty points depends on the type of road you are driving on. Entering the left-turn waiting area: When the straight-ahead green light is on in the same direction, even if the left-turn signal is red, vehicles intending to turn left are allowed to enter the 'left-turn waiting area' at the intersection and wait until the left-turn signal turns green before proceeding. Left-turn waiting line: It is important to remind drivers that the left-turn waiting line is not the 'stop line.' If both the straight-ahead and left-turn signal lights are red, all vehicles must wait behind the previous stop line.

[HazelLee]

After driving for so many years, I must emphasize that you absolutely cannot go straight in a left-turn lane. Look, those lanes are marked with arrows, meaning they are dedicated to left turns; if you go straight, not only will you get a ticket, but you’re also likely to cause an accident. I once experienced it myself—I was in a hurry and went straight in a left-turn lane, almost getting hit by a car from the side. It scared me so much I broke out in a cold sweat. The traffic police later lectured me, saying it counts as illegal driving. The fine is minor, but the points deducted are the real loss. Urban traffic is so busy these days; everyone has their right of way. If you block the lane by going straight, the left-turning vehicles behind you will be thrown into chaos, and the entire intersection will be paralyzed. My advice is to check the road signs in advance, plan your route properly, and don’t take shortcuts or risks. Safety first—never follow others’ lazy example and do something like this. The lesson is far too harsh.

[VonDallas]

When I first started learning to drive, I was also confused about whether I could go straight in a left-turn lane. After all, some intersections look similar, and going straight seems quite smooth. But the instructor repeatedly warned me: No! The lane arrows are strict rules, and going straight counts as a violation. During the test, I once tried not turning left and was immediately deducted points and failed. Since then, I’ve developed a habit: every time I approach an intersection, I check the road markings and traffic signals in advance; choosing the right lane avoids mistakes. Seriously, making this mistake once can lead to a fine of a few hundred yuan at best, or an accident at worst; I’ve even seen others rear-end because of it. In my first year of driving, I learned that lane discipline is a matter of life and death—don’t cut corners on such small things, as the gain is not worth the loss.

[DelDeclan]

The rules are clear: the left-turn lane is designed exclusively for left-turning vehicles, and going straight is absolutely not allowed. Look at the traffic signals and arrows—they clearly indicate the direction. Forcing your way straight through is illegal, could get you a ticket, and may even result in points deducted from your license. From a safety perspective, doing this can block the normal flow of left-turning traffic and increase the risk of collisions. I always remember that lane rights are clearly defined; one wrong move, and the consequences can be severe. Simply follow the markings, and you won’t run into trouble.