|
Misuse of a special
left turn lane
Misuse of a special left turn lane is an increasing traffic
safety problem. A “special left turn lane” is a median lane that
is marked for left turns by drivers proceeding in opposite
directions. Oftentimes drivers illegally travel in a special
left turn lane to reach the left turn lane at an intersection.
This driving behavior is not only dangerous, but illegal.
A person commits the offense of misuse of a special left turn
lane if the person uses a special left turn lane for anything
other than making a left turn either into or from the special
left turn lane. A person who turns into a special left turn lane
from an alley, driveway or other entrance to the highway that
has the special left turn lane is in violation if the person
does anything other than stop in the lane and merge into traffic
in the lane immediately to the right of the person’s vehicle.
It is illegal to use a special left turn lane to pass adjacent
traffic proceeding in the same direction. Drivers who use a
special left turn lane as a travel lane create a dangerous
condition for other vehicles using the roadway. Additionally,
passing stopped traffic on the right using the shoulder or bike
lane is also dangerous and illegal.
Drivers waiting to make a left turn at an intersection must wait
in line until the designated turn lane becomes available. Many
accidents occur because unsafe drivers pass stopped traffic in
an attempt to reach the designated left turn lane ahead. This is
particularly a problem at the intersection of River Road N at
Lockhaven Drive NE, which happens to be the most dangerous
intersection in Keizer. Police routinely enforce this law during
peak commute times. Drivers should expect delays and allow extra
travel time. Safe driving isn't always convenient.
At most signalized intersections, there are distinctive lane
markings indicating when drivers can safely and legally enter a
left turn lane for the purpose of making a left turn. There is
usually a break in the lane divider line followed by a solid
white line. Otherwise, special left turn lanes are marked with a
solid yellow line indicating a no-passing zone.
Misuse of a special left turn lane is a Class B traffic
violation punishable by a fine of $242. If a crash occurs, the
base fine is increased.
Officer Dan Kelley
Traffic Safety Unit
Keizer Police Department
|
