Can You Turn Left at a Red Light?
2 Answers
Generally speaking, you can turn left at a red light. However, there are some special circumstances where left turns are not allowed. Normal circumstances: If the center line of the road is a double yellow line (one solid and one dashed), and there are no signs prohibiting left turns or U-turns, vehicles on the dashed line side can turn left or make a U-turn without regard to whether the light is red, as long as it is safe and does not impede traffic. At intersections with signs indicating 'U-turn permitted on red light,' left turns or U-turns are allowed when the light is red. Special circumstances: Without any special indications, even in a left-turn lane, you cannot turn left at a red light. Otherwise, you may be fined 200 yuan and penalized with 6 demerit points for running a red light. Running a red light requires the electronic eye to capture three photos: the vehicle crossing the stop line, the vehicle in the middle of the intersection, and the vehicle reaching the opposite side of the intersection. Only with these three photos will it be considered running a red light. Therefore, if you see a red light while turning left, do not proceed further. If the third photo is not captured, it will not be considered running a red light. However, you must not stop on the crosswalk, or you will be fined 200 yuan and penalized with 3 demerit points. If only the front of the vehicle slightly crosses the stop line, it will not be considered running a red light, and no penalty will be imposed.
Whether you can turn left at a red light really depends on where you're driving. In my driving experience, in most places like mainland China, it's prohibited because traffic light rules are strict—stopping at red lights is a fundamental principle. A left turn is considered a form of proceeding, so you must wait for a green light or a dedicated left-turn arrow before moving. If you accidentally run a red light to turn left, surveillance cameras will catch it, and fines plus demerit points are inevitable. In severe cases, it can easily lead to accidents. For example, once at an intersection, I saw a car turn left without waiting for the green light and nearly hit a pedestrian crossing the street. The traffic police issued a ticket on the spot, and the driver regretted it deeply. Before driving, it's best to familiarize yourself with the local traffic regulations manual or download a navigation app to remind yourself—don't risk it just to save a few seconds.
