Left Turn Only Lane and Traffic Light Regulations

If you are in a left turn lane and there is a green light (without an arrow), you are legally required to yield to opposing traffic. This responsibility ensures the safety of all road users and adherence to traffic laws. This article will explore the specifics of turning left at a traffic light, the importance of yielding, and what to do in various situations.

Yielding to Opposing Traffic

Simply put, if you are at a left turn lane with only a green light, you must wait for any cars coming straight or turning right to pass before proceeding. This action is not just a legal requirement but a crucial step in ensuring safe motoring. Whether you are driving in Canada, Australia, or any other country, this principle remains the same.

Green Light and Arrow Rules

When a left turn arrow is green, you have the right-of-way and can proceed to turn left as long as the oncoming traffic has come to a complete stop. In this scenario, the green light with a left turn arrow means you have priority over right-turning or straight-going vehicles. However, pedestrians, bicycles, and other road users must still be given the right-of-way as required by law.

Understanding Traffic Signals and Yielding

It is imperative to always yield to oncoming traffic when driving. This means stopping and waiting for any cars or pedestrians to clear the intersection before making a turn. Failing to yield can result in accidents and potential legal consequences, as demonstrated in numerous traffic accident videos available on YouTube.

Intersection Preparations

When you are in a left turn lane, prepare to turn only when the traffic lights allow and the intersection is clear. It is recommended to move into the intersection space when you are ready to turn, ensuring there is a sufficient gap for a safe turn. Additionally, if the light turns yellow, wait until it turns green if the intersection is clear, or proceed only if oncoming traffic has stopped completely.

Right of Way

Unless there is a green arrow, drivers in left turn lanes must yield to all oncoming traffic. This includes cars going straight, turning right, pedestrians, and even poodles. Always check for any other road users and ensure the intersection is safe before proceeding to turn.

Examples of Different Traffic Scenarios

1. **No Green Arrow**: In situations where a left turn traffic light is green but there is no green arrow, you must yield to all oncoming traffic. Wait until the intersection is clear before turning, or if the light turns yellow, wait until it turns green.

2. **Red Arrow and Green Light**: If the left turn arrow is red and the oncoming traffic has a green light, you must wait for the arrow to turn green before attempting your turn. This is a critical point to ensure no accidents occur.

3. **Signage and Yield Signs**: In some intersections, there may be a yield sign on the left turn lane with only a single green light. In such cases, you must yield to oncoming traffic before proceeding to turn.

Understanding and following these traffic rules can prevent accidents and ensure safe driving for all road users. Always be cautious and attentive to the traffic signals and the movement of other vehicles on the road.