Does entering the left-turn waiting zone count as running a red light?
2 Answers
Entering the left-turn waiting zone does not count as running a red light. If you have already crossed the stop line and are continuing to turn left when the red light comes on, it is not considered running a red light. More details are as follows: 1. When the straight-through signal in the same direction turns green, vehicles in the left-turn lane must move forward into the waiting zone and wait for the signal. The 'left-turn waiting zone' is only for left-turning vehicles. When the straight-through signal in the same direction is green, even if the left-turn signal is red, left-turning vehicles are allowed to enter the 'left-turn waiting zone' at the intersection and wait until the left-turn signal turns green before proceeding. 2. It should be reminded to drivers that the left-turn waiting line is not a 'stop line.' If both the straight-through and left-turn signals are red, all vehicles must wait at the previous stop line. 3. If a vehicle has just crossed the stop line when the light is red but stops immediately, this will not be penalized as running a red light. However, if there is obvious movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. 4. The three photos taken by electronic monitoring for running a red light are: the vehicle crossing the stop line, followed by two photos of the vehicle reaching the middle of the intersection and the opposite side of the intersection.
The left-turn waiting area really doesn't count as running a red light. I used this area frequently when driving before. It's designed precisely for vehicles to wait there when the left-turn signal is red, which is completely legal and compliant. If you enter the waiting area when the light turns green, you're waiting within the rules' framework and it doesn't count as a violation. However, if you force your way in after the signal has turned red, or if you don't stop when the signal changes while you're in the waiting area, then it's a violation that could be caught on camera, resulting in points deducted and fines. I remember one time at a busy intersection, I stopped in the waiting area to wait for the right moment to turn left, and only proceeded when the signal turned green—never got fined. Driving requires following the rules; it not only helps avoid fines but also reduces collision risks. In short, the waiting area is a well-designed feature—use it properly and you'll stay safe and worry-free.
