CVC 21657: Center Turn Lanes

California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21657 pertains to the rules and regulations governing the use of center left-turn lanes, also known as two-way left-turn lanes, in the state of California. These lanes are typically found in the center of a road or street and are designated for use by vehicles making left turns in either direction. Here's an explanation of CVC 21657:

1. Use of Center Left-Turn Lanes: CVC 21657 specifies that the center left-turn lane is to be used exclusively for making left turns or preparing to make a left turn. It is not intended for through travel or for overtaking other vehicles. Drivers should use these lanes to merge into when they intend to make a left turn from a roadway or when entering a roadway from a driveway or side street.

2. No Travel or Passing: The law prohibits using the center left-turn lane for traveling through an intersection or for passing other vehicles. This lane is intended solely for the safe and efficient movement of vehicles turning left.

3. Leaving the Center Left-Turn Lane: Once a driver has entered the center left-turn lane to make a left turn, they should continue using it until it is safe to merge into the adjacent lane and complete the left turn. This helps prevent conflicts and collisions with vehicles in the adjacent lanes.

4. No Overtaking: Drivers should not use the center left-turn lane to pass other vehicles waiting to make a left turn. Passing in this lane is not only illegal but can also be dangerous.

5. Right Turns: CVC 21657 also stipulates that vehicles making right turns should not enter the center left-turn lane. Right turns should be made from the lane nearest to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.

6. Safety and Signage: Proper signage and road markings are typically used to indicate the presence of center left-turn lanes and provide guidance to drivers. Drivers should always obey posted traffic signs and pavement markings when approaching and using these lanes.

Failure to follow the rules outlined in CVC 21657 can result in traffic violations, fines, and potential accidents. It's important for drivers to be familiar with the traffic laws in their state and to use center left-turn lanes responsibly to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow.