Can You Turn Left at a Red Light?
2 Answers
Whether you can turn left at a red light depends on the specific road conditions. If there is a dedicated arrow signal at the intersection, you must follow its instructions. In a left-turn waiting zone, when the straight signal is green and the left-turn signal is red, you can enter the waiting zone and proceed when the left-turn signal turns green. If there is no dedicated arrow signal, left-turning vehicles can turn left after the straight signal turns green, provided they do not interfere with oncoming straight-moving traffic. Left-Turn Tips: Slow down within 50-100 meters before turning, use the turn signal to indicate your direction, and follow the principle of "slow down, look carefully, and proceed cautiously." Pay close attention to the inside of the turn, watching out for pedestrians, bicycles, or motorcycles that may be traveling parallel to the roadside and whose direction is unclear. Drivers should clearly observe no-entry signs, signal their turn in advance, and stay as far left as possible during the turn to provide convenience for vehicles behind and those making right turns. When making a right turn, also signal in advance, turn slowly, and pay attention to the entry and exit angles of the turn to prevent the right rear wheel from going off the road or hitting pedestrians or obstacles.
When driving with friends, we discussed that turning left on a red light depends on the specific situation. At most urban intersections, you can't just turn left when the red light is on because the rules clearly prohibit it to avoid collisions with oncoming straight-moving vehicles. I've encountered people who insisted on turning left on red, nearly causing accidents or even getting tickets from traffic police. My advice is to first check the traffic signal: if there's a green left-turn arrow, then you can turn; if there's no arrow, just wait patiently for the green light. Remember, safety is the top priority—don't risk cutting in, it's better to wait a bit longer. Additionally, in rural areas or on some small roads, the rules might be more flexible, but it's best to observe carefully whether there are any oncoming vehicles or check for signs allowing left turns. In short, following local traffic rules is key, and when in doubt, I always choose to play it safe.
