A protected turn is a left (or right, in countries where driving is on the left) turn at an intersection where you have the right-of-way, signaled by a green arrow while oncoming traffic is stopped.
Protected turns are designed to enhance safety and reduce the risk of collisions when making turns at busy intersections. They achieve this by providing a dedicated period where turning vehicles are shielded from conflicting traffic streams.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a protected turn:
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Green Arrow: The defining characteristic of a protected turn is the presence of a green arrow signal. This arrow indicates that you have the exclusive right-of-way to make the turn.
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Opposing Traffic Stopped: When the green arrow is illuminated, oncoming traffic facing a red light is legally required to stop. This ensures that you can safely complete your turn without having to yield to approaching vehicles.
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Pedestrian Considerations: While the green arrow provides protection from vehicular traffic, always be aware of pedestrians who may be crossing the intersection. Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.
Benefits of Protected Turns:
- Reduced Collision Risk: By separating turning traffic from oncoming traffic, protected turns significantly lower the chances of accidents.
- Improved Traffic Flow: Protected turns can improve the overall efficiency of an intersection by allowing vehicles to turn without delays caused by waiting for gaps in traffic.
- Enhanced Safety for Vulnerable Road Users: Protected turns also benefit pedestrians and cyclists by reducing the potential for conflicts with turning vehicles.
In summary, a protected turn provides a safer and more efficient way to navigate intersections by granting turning vehicles the right-of-way while opposing traffic is held at a red light, clearly indicated by a green arrow signal.
