On Behalf of Simon & Gilman, LLP | Jul 23, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |
The New York metropolitan area is host to many one-way streets. If navigating so many one-ways starts to become frustrating, you might just wonder if it is safe and legal to make a left turn during a red light.
Every driver should know that in a standard intersection, it is acceptable to turn right on red while yielding to traffic coming down the lane unless signage indicates otherwise. Knowing how the law applies to intersections with a one-way street will help you make safe and efficient decisions while driving through dense urban areas.
What does the law say about turning left on a one-way?
The New York Department of Motor Vehicles outlines traffic control guidelines, including appropriate actions you may take at a traffic light. According to the guidelines, you can turn left from a one-way road to another one-way road at a red light after yielding to oncoming vehicles and any pedestrians in the midst of crossing. Be mindful of any signage that marks the intersection as an exception to the rule.
How can you help to avoid accidents at busy intersections?
Failing to yield the right-of-way and neglecting other traffic control guidelines can lead to devastating motor vehicle accidents in a city intersection. You can do your part to reduce the odds of a deadly crash by remembering that turning left at a red light is only legal when transitioning from a one-way street to another one-way street, and by playing it safe when waiting for oncoming traffic to proceed through the intersection.
Many of the injuries that occur at intersections are due to drivers neglecting to abide by best practices when turning. Some motorists are unaware that turning left at a red light is legal in some circumstances, so be safe and observant when performing this maneuver.
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