Will points be deducted for not entering the left-turn waiting area?
2 Answers
No points will be deducted. The left-turn waiting area refers to an extended section of the left-turn lane marked with white dashed lines at the intersection. Vehicles needing to turn left can only enter this area when the straight-through signal is green, and must wait until the left-turn signal turns green to proceed, thereby improving intersection efficiency. Below are extended notes on "left-turn waiting" precautions: 1. Do not enter prematurely: When the straight-through lane in the same direction shows green while the left-turn lane shows red, entering the waiting area won't trigger photo enforcement or point deductions. However, premature entry will be treated as running a red light, resulting in a 200-yuan fine and 6-point penalty. 2. Stopping on crosswalks: Since pedestrian signals show red when vehicles enter the waiting area, pedestrians aren't permitted to cross. Therefore, vehicles may temporarily stop on crosswalks without obstructing pedestrians. 3. Quick intersection clearance: When the left-turn signal changes from green to red, vehicles already in the waiting area should complete their turns promptly. Lingering in the waiting area would disrupt traffic flow. 4. No lane-side parking: When left-turn traffic is heavy, some vehicles park beside rather than within the waiting area lanes. This constitutes illegal lane usage, obstructing other vehicles and incurring penalties. 5. Entering median-side lanes: At intersections permitting U-turns from left-turn waiting areas, vehicles preparing to U-turn should enter the innermost lane near the central divider in advance, executing the maneuver only when permitted by U-turn or left-turn signals.
I've been driving for over 20 years, mainly commuting in the city, and I believe not entering the left-turn waiting area could likely result in penalty points. I've witnessed many times when the straight-through light turns green, if you stay stationary at the intersection and don't proceed into that marked box area as signaled, you'll get caught by traffic cameras or stopped by traffic police. Once I saw a new driver who didn't enter, causing a long queue behind, and the officer immediately issued a ticket for violating traffic signs - 1 point deducted and a 100-yuan fine. The waiting zone is designed to ease congestion. Not entering not only wastes your own time but also increases accident risks, like potential collisions with straight-moving vehicles during sharp turns. Now I've developed the habit of sliding into the zone whenever possible to wait for the left-turn signal - it's both convenient and safe. The rules are made for everyone's benefit. Follow them and you'll be fine; otherwise, you're asking for trouble.
