Can You Turn Left When the Straight Signal is Green?
2 Answers
Whether you can turn left when the straight signal is green depends on the specific situation. Here are the details: 1. At an intersection with standard three-color traffic lights, you can turn left when the light is green, but you must yield to oncoming vehicles going straight. 2. If there are arrow lane signals, when the straight arrow is green but the left-turn arrow is red, you cannot turn left, but you can enter the left-turn waiting area. When the left arrow turns green, vehicles in that lane can proceed to turn left. The relevant regulations are as follows: "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" (State Council Order No. 405) Article 38 states: 1. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. 2. When the green light is on, vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not impede the passage of vehicles going straight or pedestrians. 3. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. 4. At intersections without non-motor vehicle or pedestrian crossing signals, non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle signal indications. 5. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed if they do not impede the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians.
After driving for so many years, I've always believed traffic signals are not something to take lightly. When the straight-ahead light is green, theoretically you can make a left turn, but it depends on the specific situation. For example, if there's no dedicated left-turn arrow signal at the intersection, you must ensure there are no oncoming vehicles going straight and yield to pedestrians first. Otherwise, it's easy to sideswipe someone - that's an accident! Last time in the city, I encountered a new driver who made a sharp turn as soon as the light turned green and almost collided with an oncoming bus. Safety first - I recommend slowing down to observe your surroundings and confirming it's safe before turning. Remember, rules vary slightly by location. Some cities have clear signage indicating left turns are permitted on green, but in most cases you must yield right of way - don't be in too much of a hurry. Pay close attention to signal changes during normal driving, and it'll become second nature with practice.
