What are the rules for left turns at traffic light intersections?
3 Answers
Here are the rules for left turns at traffic light intersections: 1. If there is a dedicated arrow signal, you must follow its instructions. 2. In the left-turn waiting zone, when the straight-through signal is green and the left-turn signal is red, enter the waiting zone. You may proceed when the left-turn signal turns green. 3. If there is no dedicated arrow signal, left-turning vehicles may turn left when the straight-through signal is green, provided they do not interfere with oncoming straight-through traffic. 4. U-turns are permitted unless there is a no U-turn or no left-turn sign. Here are the functions of traffic lights: 1. They help vehicles and pedestrians cross intersections in an orderly manner. 2. They make travel more convenient, save significant time, and ensure the safety of life and property. 3. They effectively regulate traffic, manage traffic flow, improve road capacity, and reduce traffic accidents.
Having driven for over a decade, I've learned there's actually quite an art to making left turns. Simply put, you can only turn when the light is green, but you must yield to oncoming straight-moving vehicles and pedestrians first – if you cut in and cause a collision, you'll bear full responsibility. At some large intersections, there are specially marked left-turn waiting zones; when the straight-ahead light turns green, you can edge forward into this space to wait for your actual turn, which allows several more cars to get through. The worst move is darting out in the last few seconds of a green light and getting stuck in the middle of the intersection, leaving your car's rear end blocking cross traffic – that's called obstructing traffic! Also, don't take too wide a turn; keep it tight by hugging the inside of the central circle, and avoid swinging your wheel so hard that you end up in the opposing lane.
As a driving instructor, it is essential to emphasize that left turns are a key focus in Subject 3. The textbook clearly states: When the light turns green, first observe the status of the traffic light and the left-turn arrow signal. If there is no arrow signal, you must completely yield to oncoming traffic. Do not turn the steering wheel too early; wait until the vehicle has fully crossed the stop line before gradually making the left turn, otherwise, you risk crossing the solid line. Pay special attention to the A-pillar blind spot during the turn—lean forward slightly to ensure visibility of electric scooters. Many trainees stop halfway on the crosswalk to wait for oncoming traffic, which is an illegal lane occupation! You must turn into the correct lane and wait there. During rainy conditions, reduce speed further when turning, as decreased tire grip increases the risk of skidding.
