Question

Difficulty: Very hardTraffic Light Signals

While approaching a multi-lane intersection in a dedicated left-turn lane, the signal head above your lane transitions from a steady green arrow to a steady yellow arrow, followed immediately by a solid green circular light. Oncoming vehicles are approaching from the opposite direction. What is the legally required driver action under these signal conditions?

  1. A
    Proceed with the left turn immediately without stopping or yielding, because the initial green arrow established right-of-way priority for the entire signal cycle.
  2. Yield the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians, completing the left turn only when a safe gap in traffic exists.Answer
  3. C
    Come to a mandatory complete stop at the limit line and remain stationary until a green arrow signal is re-displayed.
  4. D
    Stop completely inside the intersection and wait until a traffic officer manually directs you to complete the turn.

Answer

Yield the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians, completing the left turn only when a safe gap in traffic exists.
When a traffic signal transitions from a protected green arrow to a solid green circular light, the left-turn phase becomes permissive (unprotected). Drivers facing a solid green circular light may turn left, but they MUST yield the right-of-way to all oncoming vehicles and pedestrians before completing the turn.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the signal transition state
The signal has transitioned from a protected green arrow (exclusive turning right-of-way) through a yellow arrow to a solid circular green light.
Recognizing the signal phase determines whether turning traffic has protected right-of-way or permissive status.
2
Apply right-of-way rules for a solid circular green light when turning left
A solid circular green light permits a left turn but requires yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians in the intersection or crosswalk.
Under standard traffic laws, a circular green light for left-turning drivers indicates an unprotected (permissive) turn.
3
Determine required vehicle control action
Wait yieldingly for an adequate gap in oncoming traffic before initiating and completing the left turn.
Ensures safe execution of the turn without causing hazards or right-of-way violations.

Key Concept

Protected vs. Permissive Left-Turn Signals
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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