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$23.99 (as of November 20, 2024 15:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Have you ever wondered why Los Angeles locals seem to have a particular disdain for tourists attempting left turns? It’s not just because you’re slowing them down; it’s because there’s this unspoken rule about left turns that you probably don’t know about. Let’s break it down so that next time you hit the City of Angels, you’ll blend in like a pro.
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The Unspoken Left Turn Rule: What Is It?
Imagine this: you’re in a rented Hyundai, trying to find your way to Universal Studios. You’ve got Waze running, indicating a left turn up ahead. But there’s a snag—you’re stuck at an intersection with no dedicated turn lane and no left turn signal. The light turns green, then yellow, then red. You’re left wondering, “What now?”
Here’s the thing: in Los Angeles, the culturally agreed-upon norm is that exactly two left-turning cars are allowed to roll forward into the intersection on green. Once the light turns red, these cars proceed with their turn. One, two, and sometimes a cheeky third car make their move. It’s a delicate dance that everybody knows, except you. And when you mess it up, the honking starts, and the rage follows.
Why Does It Exist?
The streets of Los Angeles were not designed with plentiful left-turn lanes or signals. In fact, only about 14% of LA’s intersections with traffic lights have left turn arrows. Without this norm, Angelenos would never make it to their destinations and definitely not on time.
Legal Backing
While it might seem like a risky move, it’s backed by California traffic law. Any left-turning vehicle over the white line (i.e., in the intersection) when the light turns red is allowed to complete its turn. Enforcement tends to follow this two-car rule pretty strictly. As one Reddit user recollects, “I once got a ticket for being the third. Cop said two cars only.” Even law enforcement officers, at the end of their shift, have to make left turns to get home.
A Deeper Dive Into LA’s Traffic Challenges
Los Angeles is notorious for its sprawling streets and unrelenting traffic. This city’s infrastructure poses unique challenges, especially for out-of-towners. Here are some reasons why navigating LA can be tricky.
Lack of Left Turn Arrows
Installing dedicated left turn signals would be the obvious solution. However, did you know each one costs upwards of $50,000? The city’s budget allows for only 20 to 30 new left turn arrows per fiscal year. The odds of these being on your route are, well, pretty slim. So, until more are installed, you’ll have to adapt to these unspoken rules.
The Culture of Road Rage
Angelenos have a reputation for being ruthless on the road. Patience is not their prime virtue when stuck behind a hesitant out-of-town driver who doesn’t get the two-car left turn rule. Knowing this rule and confidently executing it can save you and everyone else a lot of hassle and honking.
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Navigating Alternatives: What Else Can You Do?
If you’re not keen on risking a ticket or the wrath of local drivers, there are alternative methods to help you get around more smoothly.
Executing a Series of Right Turns
You know how UPS optimizes its routes to minimize left turns? Following their logic, stick to right turns. If you make three right turns instead of a single left, you’ll still arrive at your destination. UPS has found this method to be statistically safer and more fuel-efficient. The next time you’re heading to Santa Monica Pier, maybe try circling the block rather than braving a left across traffic.
Public Transport and Rideshare Options
Los Angeles boasts a comprehensive public transport system including buses, subways, and light rail. You can also use rideshare options like Uber and Lyft, thereby leaving the left-turn angst to someone else. This can be a stress-free way to navigate unfamiliar streets.
When Locals Become Tourists
Interestingly, the struggle with left turns is not just for tourists in LA. Angelenos themselves often face a learning curve when they travel to places with different driving norms.
California Drivers Traveling Elsewhere
When LA locals head out to more peaceful destinations—say Oregon—they often find themselves sticking out like sore thumbs. Oregonians, who are used to waiting patiently for clear traffic, get a kick out of watching Californians fume behind their wheels.
Universal Havoc
The truth is, everyone has their version of the left-turn conundrum. In cities with more relaxed driving norms, LA drivers may find themselves in the back of the honking queue, just as agitated as the tourists they used to admonish back home.
In Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to the unspoken left turn rule can transform your driving experience in Los Angeles. By knowing when to inch forward and take that turn on red, you’ll spare yourself the ire of locals and make your travel more efficient.
If you really want to blend in during your LA trip, remember: two cars, then go on red. Or better yet, consider alternative routes and transport options. When in doubt, let the locals handle the left turns.
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