Should you make a left turn before or after crossing the overpass bridge?
3 Answers
When driving a motor vehicle to make a left turn at an overpass, you must drive past the overpass bridge before turning left; direct left turns are not permitted. Below is partial information about overpass types: Rotary Interchange: When passing through this type of interchange, except for straight-moving vehicles on the lower level which may proceed in their original direction, all other motor vehicles must enter the circular roadway and travel counterclockwise around the loop; proceed straight through the center as one-way traffic, then select the exit direction for your intended route. Diamond Interchange: The traffic organization of this interchange designates straight-moving vehicles as grade-separated, right-turning vehicles travel on ramps, while left-turning vehicles utilize at-grade intersections on secondary roads.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have navigated countless urban overpasses. Left turns can indeed be confusing. Generally, left turns on overpasses are made after crossing the bridge because you need to go up the bridge, cross over other lanes or sidewalks, and then loop back via the right ramp to turn left. For example, on a common cloverleaf interchange, once you're on the bridge, there are clear signs indicating the left-turn direction. Never veer left or make a sharp turn before crossing the bridge—that can easily lead to accidents. Once, I was rushing to work and almost late, so I forgot to check the traffic light and made a reckless turn before the bridge, nearly colliding with another car. The lesson is to always obey road signs and plan your route in advance. Turning left after crossing the bridge ensures safe traffic flow and avoids congestion and collision risks. Additionally, some older overpasses in big cities may have different designs, like certain loop exits in Beijing, where you might turn before the bridge under specific conditions, but these are always guided by clear signage. Make it a habit to slow down and check road signs as you approach a bridge. Navigation apps can also help predict turning points, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
I got my driver's license less than a year ago and have also taken some wrong turns when making left turns on overpasses. I remember last time when I was driving on the elevated road, the navigation said the left exit was coming up. I thought I had to turn before crossing the bridge, so I changed lanes too early and missed the correct spot, ending up having to circle back. It wasn't until I asked a seasoned driver friend that I learned left turns are usually made after crossing the bridge. The bridge design often requires vehicles to go straight up first to avoid conflicts with the main road, then smoothly turn left onto the new road via the ramp. It's like playing a game—you can't rush to finish; you have to follow the rules. With more practice, you'll get familiar with it. For example, always pay attention to the directional arrows at the top or ahead of the bridge—green signs indicating the left-turn direction are your cue. Be extra careful in bad weather; rainy roads are slippery, and visibility is poor. Slowing down early and observing carefully can help prevent skidding accidents. During the novice phase, I recommend using simulation software for practice, as road conditions are complex and ever-changing—safety always comes first.
