Which lane should you turn into when making a left turn?
2 Answers
When making a left turn, the vehicle should enter the leftmost lane if there are three lanes available. According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Article 51: Motor vehicles passing through an intersection controlled by traffic signals shall proceed in accordance with the following provisions: at an intersection with designated lanes, enter the designated lane according to the intended direction of travel; motor vehicles already within the intersection preparing to enter a roundabout shall have the right of way; when making a left turn, turn to the left of the center point of the intersection. Turn signals shall be activated when turning, and low beams shall be used at night. Article 52: Motor vehicles passing through an intersection without traffic signal control or traffic police direction shall, in addition to complying with the provisions of Article 51, paragraphs (2) and (3), also comply with the following provisions: yield to the party with the right of way if there are traffic signs or markings; if there are no traffic signs or markings, stop before entering the intersection to observe and yield to vehicles coming from the right.
As a veteran taxi driver with 10 years of experience, which lane to turn left into really depends on the situation. At a standard three-lane intersection, I usually choose the middle lane as the safest option. For intersections with four or more lanes, always take the leftmost lane. Remember to slowly steer while keeping your front wheels aligned with the turning zone markings - don't jerk the steering wheel too sharply or you might overshoot into the right lane. The worst are intersections with faded lane markings; in those cases I navigate by judging the distance from the curb. Always check your right mirror for electric bikes trying to cut in - just last week I nearly hit a food delivery scooter that suddenly darted out. After completing the turn, immediately check the road arrows to adjust your position and avoid accidentally entering bus lanes.
