When Can You Enter the Left-Turn Waiting Zone?
4 Answers
When the straight-through green light in the same direction is on (while the left-turn light is red), left-turning vehicles should enter the waiting zone in sequence and wait to turn left. The left-turn lane is extended by several meters with a white dashed-line box that directly connects to the middle of the road. These white dashed lines mark the designated 'left-turn waiting zone.' Rules for the left-turn waiting zone: 1. When both the straight-through and left-turn lights are red: Left-turning vehicles are prohibited from entering the waiting zone and should queue behind the stop line to wait for the signal; 2. When the straight-through green light in the same direction is on (while the left-turn light is red): Left-turning vehicles should enter the waiting zone in sequence and wait to turn left. When the left-turn light subsequently turns green, vehicles waiting in the waiting zone should proceed to turn left through the intersection in order; 3. When the left-turn signal light is red (or yellow): Left-turning vehicles that have not entered the waiting zone should stop behind the stop line and must not enter the waiting zone. Vehicles that have already entered the waiting zone should continue to turn left through the intersection and must not stop within the intersection, ensuring smooth traffic flow.
After driving for so many years, I've summarized one key tip: judging the left-turn waiting area isn't actually difficult. Just remember, when you see the straight-through signal turn green, even though the left-turn arrow is still red, you can proceed into the waiting zone. Wait there until the left-turn signal turns green before making your turn. This technique is especially useful during rush hours when traffic is heavy, as it can save you an entire signal cycle. However, watch out for two exceptions: first, when there's a dedicated waiting zone signal, always follow its instructions; second, if the car ahead is stuck at the intersection, it's better to miss one turn than force your way in. I once got stuck downtown with an impatient bus honking behind me - super embarrassing!
As a commuter who drives to work every day, I've learned my lesson the hard way at left-turn waiting zones. Now I know better: you can only enter when the straight-through light is green, and even if it's empty, you mustn't go in when the left-turn light is red. The most nerve-wracking moment is when the straight-through green light flashes and turns yellow - it's awkward if your car's front has just crossed the stop line. My experience is that once the front wheels cross the line, you can proceed into the waiting zone, but if the entire vehicle hasn't completely crossed, it's best to brake. Be extra careful on rainy days - last month I saw two cars rear-end each other in the waiting zone; the wet road made it impossible to stop in time. Here's another practical tip: when the straight-through green is short, the third car in line shouldn't push forward - it's better to leave space for smoother oncoming traffic.
During my novice driving days, the instructor repeatedly emphasized: Enter the waiting zone when the straight-through light is green! As long as the straight signal is green, you can enter the waiting zone even if the left-turn light is still red. I remember when I first started driving, I kept staring at the left-turn signal, only to be honked at frantically by cars behind me. Later, I realized: At this time, oncoming traffic is waiting at a red light, so entering the waiting zone actually makes you safer. However, three points must be noted: Do not cross the boundary lines of the waiting zone; do not stop on the crosswalk; and do not use your phone while waiting for the signal. It's recommended for beginners to observe the arrow markings at intersections, as some intersections use LED signs to specifically indicate whether entry is permitted.
