Left hand turns are not illegal in New Jersey, but there are specific rules and regulations that drivers must follow when making left turns. It is important for drivers to understand these rules in order to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.
In New Jersey, the law states that drivers who are turning left must yield to oncoming traffic and traffic already present in the intersection. This means that if you are turning left at an intersection, you must wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before proceeding with your turn. It is your responsibility as the driver to judge when it is safe to make the turn.
The burden lies with the driver making the left turn to act reasonably and cautiously. This means that you should be aware of the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, and you should not attempt to make a left turn if it would be unsafe to do so. It is always better to wait for a larger gap in traffic rather than trying to squeeze through a smaller gap and risking a collision.
It is also important to note that many New Jersey roadways are multi-lane highways with speed limits over 45 mph. This can make left turns more challenging and potentially more dangerous. When making a left turn on a high-speed roadway, it is crucial to use your turn signal well in advance to alert other drivers of your intentions. Additionally, you should be prepared to wait for a longer gap in traffic, as vehicles traveling at higher speeds may be approaching more quickly.
Personal experience can attest to the importance of being cautious when making left turns in New Jersey. I have encountered situations where drivers have attempted to make left turns without yielding to oncoming traffic, causing near-misses or even accidents. These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of following the rules and exercising caution when making left turns.
Left hand turns are not illegal in New Jersey, but drivers must follow specific rules and regulations when making these turns. The burden lies with the driver making the left turn to yield to oncoming traffic and traffic already present in the intersection. It is important to be aware of the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, especially on high-speed roadways. By following these rules and exercising caution, drivers can ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.