Left Turn Lane Dilemma: Tips for Drivers in Springfield and Beyond

Left Turn Lane Dilemma: What Drivers Need to Know in Springfield

Ah, Springfield! A city known for its beautiful parks, friendly folks, and, let’s be honest, those pesky left turn lanes that can drive any driver a little bit bonkers. We’ve all been there – stuck waiting for that precious green light to make our left turn, but feeling the pressure build as more cars pile up behind us. Some drivers, it seems, have their own strategy: they creep into the intersection while waiting, ready to pounce as soon as it’s safe. But is this practice okay? Let’s break it all down.

What’s the Deal with “Control of the Intersection”?

Well, the city of Springfield has a catchy phrase for it: “being in control of the intersection.” According to the city’s official website, “Vehicles that legally enter a signalized intersection have the right to be there until they can safely clear the intersection.” So if you’re waiting to make that left turn with a solid green light, you’re legally allowed to inch into the intersection even if the light turns red while you’re waiting.

But, there’s a catch! Though you can stay in the intersection, “you are still required to yield to approaching vehicles.” In other words, if you’re making that left turn, you need to ensure it’s safe before you proceed even if you’ve entered the intersection legally. It’s important to remember you don’t need to exit the intersection before the light screams red at you!

What About Other Cities in Missouri?

Springfield isn’t the only city wondering about the rules surrounding those prickly left turns. In Kansas City and throughout the state, many drivers are asking the same questions. Is it illegal to wait in the middle of an intersection while waiting for that green light?

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there’s no specific law in place to say it’s illegal to hang out in the middle of an intersection waiting to turn left. As long as you’ve entered lawfully – that is, on a green or yellow light – you’re in the clear. Corporal Justin Ewing reminds us that exercising safe driving is key. It’s usually best to stay at the designated stop line and only pull into the intersection when it’s truly clear for you to do so.

The Risks of Waiting in the Intersection

However, safety first, folks! Ewing points out that some drivers still choose to wait in the intersection while waiting for oncoming traffic. This can complicate things and even block other drivers’ views, creating a situation that makes it harder to gauge when it’s safe to make that sought-after left turn. If a driver gets a little too eager and swings into the intersection after the light turns red, they’re dancing on the edge of a class C misdemeanor, which can bring some hefty consequences, including fines or even jail time!

Kansas City Rules and Regulations

For those in Kansas City, there’s a city code that highlights what’s expected when making a left turn. It states that “the driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.” It’s all about keeping everyone safe on the road! Another city ordinance adds that you shouldn’t enter an intersection unless there’s enough space on the other side for your vehicle without getting in the way of anyone else.

Wrapping It Up

So, fellow drivers, the next time you find yourself in Springfield or Kansas City pondering whether to hang out in the intersection or play it safe at the stop line, remember these guidelines. It’s often better to wait until it’s clear to make that left turn. Not only does it make your experience smoother, but it also keeps everyone on the road safer!