How to Make a Left Turn at a T-Junction?
3 Answers
Method for making a left turn at a T-junction: Turn according to the traffic signal instructions, slow down when passing through the intersection, and prioritize observing the oncoming traffic from the left front before checking the right front. Before making the left turn, check the rearview mirror to confirm safety and then proceed. Below are the traffic light rules for T-junctions: 1. Right turn: If there is a dedicated arrow signal, follow its instructions. If there is no dedicated signal, you can turn as long as it does not interfere with straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians in the non-motorized vehicle lane. 2. Left turn: If there is a dedicated arrow signal, follow its instructions. If there is a left-turn waiting area, enter it when the straight signal is green and the left-turn signal is red. Proceed when the left-turn signal turns green.
When it comes to making a left turn at a T-intersection, as an experienced driver, the most fundamental thing is to slow down and steadily move the car near the centerline of the intersection without rushing the turn. Check if there are any oncoming straight-moving vehicles from the opposite lane. If there's a gap, seize the opportunity and turn quickly; if there are cars, wait patiently—sometimes they might yield, but don’t count on it. Pay attention to bicycles and pedestrians, especially in crowded areas, as they might suddenly appear at the intersection, leading to accidents if you’re not careful. In poor visibility conditions like rain or at night, make sure your lights are on and take extra time. Remember, safety always comes first. The general rule is to yield to straight-moving traffic, keep the car steady during the turn, and avoid sudden acceleration or braking to prevent loss of control. In short, treat every left turn as a new experience.
When I first started driving, I always felt a bit nervous making left turns at T-junctions, but slowly I learned that the key is to observe properly. First, slow down and stop steadily at the intersection line without encroaching into the lane. Then, observe the oncoming traffic: if there are vehicles going straight, patiently wait until they all pass; if there’s no traffic or a large gap, seize the opportunity to turn. Remember to check for pedestrians and cyclists, as they might be in blind spots. From my personal experience, once I accidentally accelerated too quickly and nearly collided with an oncoming car—that’s when I learned not to get distracted while turning and to stay focused on the road ahead and both sides. As a beginner, practicing these steps more will help you develop good habits.
