Should Turning Vehicles Yield to Straight-going Vehicles?
3 Answers
At intersections without directional signals, turning vehicles must yield to straight-going vehicles. Under traffic regulations, straight-going vehicles have the right of way. If a turning vehicle fails to yield to a straight-going vehicle and a traffic accident occurs, the turning vehicle bears full responsibility. Below are situations where turning vehicles do not need to yield to straight-going vehicles: 1. Branch roads yield to trunk roads: Vehicles on branch roads must yield to vehicles on trunk roads even when going straight. 2. Auxiliary roads yield to main roads: When vehicles on main roads turn into auxiliary roads, vehicles on auxiliary roads must yield even when going straight. 3. First-in, first-out at intersections: If a turning vehicle enters the intersection first, it has the right of way. 4. Yield at 'Yield' signs: At intersections with 'Yield' signs, vehicles must yield to merging or turning vehicles from other directions even when going straight. 5. Roundabouts follow 'first come, first served': Vehicles already in the roundabout have priority. Vehicles entering the roundabout must yield to those already inside. Even if entering straight, collisions with vehicles already turning inside the roundabout are the responsibility of the entering vehicle. 6. Same lane, first vehicle proceeds: On the same road, if the vehicle ahead is turning left or making a U-turn, overtaking from behind is prohibited. In case of an accident, the rear vehicle bears full responsibility.
Turning must yield to going straight! This is an iron rule repeatedly emphasized by driving instructors during the license test. Straight-moving vehicles are faster and closer, and forcing a turn can easily lead to a collision. I've seen too many scrapes caused by turning vehicles failing to yield, resulting in fines, points deducted, and repair costs. Especially at intersections without traffic lights, you must slow down in advance, check the rearview mirror, and confirm that the straight-moving vehicle is far enough away before turning. Be extra cautious at crosswalks, as pedestrians and electric bikes may suddenly dart out. Remember, the steering wheel is in your hands—waiting a few more seconds is always better than causing an accident.
Driving experience after 10 years: Being cautious when turning never hurts. Straight-going vehicles have the right of way, and if you rush those few seconds and cause an accident, you'll definitely be at fault. I make it a habit to check the rearview mirror before reaching an intersection to see how much distance is left for the straight-going vehicles. When encountering large trucks or buses, it's best to stay farther away—they have longer braking distances and bigger blind spots. On rainy days when the road is slippery, I'd rather wait longer even if the car behind honks. Don't trust those reckless drivers who turn without signaling—their license points will eventually be deducted.
