Should left-turning vehicles yield to right-turning vehicles or vice versa?
3 Answers
Yielding rules differ between left-turning and right-turning vehicles. Left-turning yields to right-turning: This rule applies at intersections without traffic lights where two vehicles approach from crossing directions. In such cases, the 'yield-to-the-right' principle is enforced. When both vehicles reach the intersection simultaneously, the left-side vehicle must yield to the right-side vehicle. This is because in China, where the driver's seat is on the left, the left 'A-pillar' obstructs more of the driver's view due to its proximity, while the right 'A-pillar' offers better visibility as it's farther away. Therefore, left-side drivers can spot right-side vehicles earlier, giving right-side vehicles the right-of-way due to their visual disadvantage. Right-turning yields to left-turning: This scenario involves opposing vehicles where one turns right and the other turns left into the same intersection. Here, the right-turning vehicle must yield to the left-turning vehicle.
As an experienced driver, after years of driving, I've concluded that yielding to right-turning vehicles when making a left turn is a fundamental principle. I remember last time at an unsignalized intersection, when I was preparing to turn left and saw a car approaching from the right intending to turn right, I proactively stopped to let it go first. This rule originates from traffic regulations: left-turning vehicles must yield to straight-going and right-turning vehicles because left turns take more time and can easily block traffic. If you don't yield, it may lead to rear-end collisions or side-swipe accidents, especially during rush hours in urban areas. Adhering to this rule helps traffic flow more smoothly. I've also found that this habit not only enhances safety but also helps reduce road rage—when everyone yields politely, the mood improves. In short, practice has taught me that consistently yielding when turning left is the wisest choice.
When I first graduated from driving school, I was a bit confused about yielding to right-turning vehicles when making a left turn. But my instructor repeatedly emphasized this as a crucial rule. During my early days of driving, I failed to yield a few times while turning left and nearly got sideswiped. That's when I truly understood the reason behind this rule: left turns have more limited visibility, so yielding to right-turning vehicles helps reduce collision risks. This rule doesn't just apply at intersections – it's equally important at other road crossings like T-junctions or residential area entrances. I recommend drivers observe both sides carefully, slow down in advance, and wait patiently. Maintaining this habit will boost your driving confidence and safety while helping avoid tickets, especially since traffic authorities enforce this strictly.
