Left Turns

To turn left:

• Drive close to the center divider or into the left turn lane.
  • Enter a designated left turn lane at the opening. Do not cross any solid line.
  • Enter a two-way center left turn lane within 200 feet of the turn. Respect the right-of-way of any vehicle, bicyclist, or motorcyclist already in the lane. Always yield to pedestrians.
• Start signaling 100 feet before the turn.
• Look over your left shoulder and reduce your speed.
• Stop behind the limit line. If there is no limit line, stop before you enter the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before you enter the intersection.
• Look both ways (left-right-left) and begin your turn when it is safe.
• Proceed into the intersection while turning to complete your turn in the left lane.
• Do not turn the steering wheel too soon and enter the lane of oncoming vehicles.
  • Keep your wheels pointed straight ahead until it is safe to start your turn. If your wheels are pointed to the left and a vehicle hits you from behind, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic.
• Accelerate smoothly during and after the turn.
• Allow the steering wheel to straighten in the new lane.

Left Turn Against a Red Light

You may turn left against a red light when you are turning from a one-way street onto a one-way street. Make sure there is no sign prohibiting the turn. Yield to other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists who have a green light. Look both ways and turn when it is safe.