Which lane should you enter after making a left turn?
2 Answers
After making a left turn, the vehicle should enter the leftmost lane. Article 51 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulates that motor vehicles passing through intersections controlled by traffic signals shall proceed according to the following rules: 1. Rule 1: At intersections with marked guide lanes, enter the guide lane according to the intended direction of travel. 2. Rule 2: Vehicles preparing to enter a roundabout shall yield to vehicles already inside the intersection. 3. Rule 3: When turning left, turn to the left side of the center point of the intersection. Turn signals shall be activated during the turn, and low beam headlights shall be used when driving at night.
I've been driving for over a decade, and it's common sense to always enter the leftmost lane after a left turn. Why do I say that? In countries with right-hand drive, immediately entering the first lane after a left turn helps avoid oncoming vehicles and prevents blocking other lanes. For example, at an intersection, if you randomly enter the middle lane, you might obstruct vehicles going straight, increasing the risk of a collision. When I first started learning to drive, I asked my instructor about this, and he repeatedly emphasized this rule, saying it's based on road design to ensure smoother traffic flow. I remember one rainy day when I carefully entered the first lane after a left turn and saw a car speeding towards me from the right—it would have been dangerous if I had entered the wrong lane. So, no matter the intersection, make it a habit to enter the first lane first for safety, then change lanes if needed.
