Is turning left from a straight lane considered running a red light?
4 Answers
It depends on the actual situation. When encountering a lane light with arrows: 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 the lane can proceed with the left turn. When encountering an intersection with a regular three-color traffic light: You can turn left when the light is green, but you must yield to oncoming straight-moving vehicles. If the straight lane has already turned red and you proceed through and then turn left, it is considered failing to obey the traffic signal, which constitutes running a red light, resulting in a 6-point penalty and a fine. According to Article 38 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" (State Council Order No. 405), motor vehicle traffic signals and non-motor vehicle traffic signals indicate: When the green light is on, vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not obstruct the passage of straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. At intersections without non-motor vehicle traffic signals or pedestrian crossing signals, non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle traffic signals. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed if they do not obstruct the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians. Article 40 states that lane traffic signals indicate: When the green arrow light is on, vehicles in the lane are permitted to proceed in the indicated direction. When the red arrow light is on, vehicles in the lane are prohibited from proceeding. Running a red light is not considered illegal in the following situations: Yielding to special vehicles: When yielding to emergency vehicles such as ambulances or fire trucks. If captured by surveillance cameras while yielding, manual review will not record the act of running a red light. Even if recorded, you can apply for reconsideration with the traffic police department. Extreme weather: When visibility is so low that even electronic police cannot clearly see the traffic lights. Photos of the violation may be blurry, and accidental running of a red light will not be penalized by traffic police. Emergency situations: When transporting a critically ill patient to the hospital, the citizen can provide proof from the hospital or the rescued individual to the traffic police for verification. If confirmed, the violation record can be cleared. If possible, it is best to call an ambulance to avoid accidents caused by running a red light. Traffic police direction: During peak commuting hours, traffic police may temporarily direct traffic at key intersections. Drivers must follow the gestures of the traffic police.
I've seen many moments captured by intersection cameras. As a long-distance driver with years of experience, making a left turn from a straight lane is absolutely considered running a red light, as it violates the most fundamental traffic rules—both lane markings and traffic signals must be obeyed. Even turning on a green light from a straight lane is wrong, let alone doing it on a red light. Getting caught once means 6 points deducted and a fine of a few hundred yuan, which is quite common. City cameras are particularly sensitive, and a slight lapse in attention can get you recorded. I think this mainly happens because drivers are in a hurry or unfamiliar with the road and misread the signs, resulting not only in traffic violations but also increasing the risk of minor collisions. Personally, I always familiarize myself with the route and confirm lane directions before driving, never making reckless turns—this saves both hassle and money.
When I first started learning to drive, I also got confused about this. I thought it was okay to make a left turn from a straight lane as long as there was no traffic light. Later, my instructor scolded me and I realized that making a left turn from a straight lane is already a violation, especially when encountering a red light—it absolutely counts as running a red light. Traffic signals control the entire intersection, and turning blindly without considering the lane is just being smart in the wrong way. The cameras will definitely catch you. Young drivers are prone to making this mistake, mainly due to lack of experience or being distracted by looking at their phones. I remember one time after a night out with friends, I made such a turn at an unfamiliar intersection and received a ticket the next day. Since then, I’ve learned my lesson. Now I use a navigation app to remind me of the correct lane, and I drive steadily on the road.
Safety is a major concern when driving, and making a left turn from a straight lane is never acceptable, regardless of the traffic light. That position simply isn't meant for left turns, and forcing a turn can easily block traffic or lead to collisions with oncoming vehicles, especially during peak hours when an accident can quickly escalate into a serious issue. Turning left on a red light is undoubtedly running a red light. During my volunteer work in the community, I've raised this issue, and statistics show that such violations account for a significant portion of accidents. Everyone, please remember when driving: pay attention not only to the traffic lights but also to road signs. Don't cause chaos just to save a few minutes. Following the rules ensures safety.
