You have 200 ft in CA to travel on it
200 ft
Only long enough to execute a legal turning maneuver, or merge into traffic.
200 feet
On a two lane road with a center lane, the center lane is used for left turns going either direction. If on a 4 lane road with a center divider then the left lane is where you should be, unless there is a left turn pocket at the intersection. If on a two lane road with no center lane then you execute the left turn from the forward travel lane that you are in. In all cases be certain to use your turn indicators to let those following you know of your intentions.
The center lane is a lane that is commonly seen in cities. I have seen it outside of cities too. This lane is used by both directions of travel for that highway. When you enter this lane you should have 2 solid yellow lines with a dotted yellow line facing the inside of the lane on both sides of your car. There is also 2 left turn painted white arrows opposing each other. The center lane is not a travel lane, thus is cannot be used to pass another vehicle. This lane is also not a divide for the highway, the highway is still undivided.
A "Center left turn lane".
right lane
If it is a shared TRAVEL lane - the threat is oncoming traffic coming right at you head on. If it is a shared TURN lane, you must be cautious that someone from the opposite lane of travel doesn't suddenly decide to turn left at the same you want to turn left, and you wind up sharing the same portion of the lane.
It's wrong everywhere. Once you're in a turn lane, you're supposed to be cmitted to that turn, which is why the line between you and the lane of travel is solid.
The center turn lane is for turning left only. It is NOT used for passing, merging, making right turns, or for traveling more than 50 feet before turning left. It was primarily designed to get out of the traveling lane when making a left turn consequently, not stopping traffic. Some states it is unlawful to pass a car, that is on the right, when you are in the center lane.
When making a left turn across opposing traffic you may pull into the center/turn lane to clear yourself out of traffic, until the turn can be made with safety. HOWEVER, it is not meant to be travelled in for more than a certain number of feet (distance may vary by state law) before making the actual turn.
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