Yellow lights can pose unique challenges for drivers making left turns, especially when they find themselves waiting in the intersection for ongoing traffic to pass before completing the turn. As personal injury attorneys specializing in truck and auto crash cases, we understand how important it is to make informed choices on the road. In this post, we will talk about some of the factors involved in deciding what to do if the light turns yellow while you are already waiting in the intersection during a left turn. By going over some tips and tricks, we hope to illuminate this issue and provide valuable insights for safely navigating this scenario.

Understanding the Purpose of Yellow Lights:

Before discussing how to approach yellow lights during left turns, it’s crucial to understand their purpose. Yellow lights serve as the transition phase between green and red, signaling drivers of an upcoming red light. For drivers already waiting in the intersection during a left turn, a yellow light serves as a warning to proceed with caution and prepare to complete the turn.

The Intersection Dilemma:

When a light turns yellow and a driver is already in an intersection in anticipation of making a left turn, they face a critical decision: should they complete the turn or wait for more traffic to pass? To make an informed choice, we must consider several factors, including adherence to traffic laws and overall safety considerations. Below, we will go over these aspects in more detail.

The Basic Rule: When waiting in the intersection during a left turn and the light turns yellow, the basic rule is to prioritize safety above all else. When turning, it’s best to only do so if it doesn’t put other traffic in danger or block their path. If it is safe to complete the turn, it’s recommended to do so quickly and smoothly to keep traffic moving and prevent accidents from occurring. However, left turns should always be executed with caution and awareness of pedestrians. If you must wait for more oncoming traffic to pass until the light turns red, be sure to remain focused and complete your turn as soon as it is safe to do so.
Considering the Law: Local laws may vary concerning left turns at yellow lights, so it’s essential to be familiar with your jurisdiction’s regulations. If a driver is waiting to make a left turn and has already entered the intersection when the light turns yellow, they are allowed to finish the turn even if the light turns red. However, it’s important for drivers to be careful and give way to oncoming traffic that has the right of way. It is crucial to remain cautious even though the situation can be stressful.

Factors to Consider When Completing a Left Turn at a Yellow Light in the Intersection:

When deciding whether to complete a left turn at a yellow light while already in the intersection, drivers should consider the following factors:

Oncoming Traffic: Before completing a left turn, it is important to assess the speed and distance of oncoming traffic. If the oncoming vehicles are at a safe distance and it won’t disrupt their flow, proceeding through the intersection is recommended. Nonetheless, exercise caution and be ready to yield if the oncoming traffic is approaching quickly or if there is uncertainty about their intentions.
Intersection Clearance Time: Assess the time remaining for the yellow light to transition to red. If there is sufficient time to safely complete the turn before the light changes, proceeding promptly might be a safer option. However, avoid rushing through the left turn, as that could lead to collisions or conflicts with other vehicles.
Pedestrians and Other Road Users: Be mindful of pedestrians and other road users, ensuring their safety when completing the left turn. Remember to always yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and avoid blocking other drivers’ routes. In case there are pedestrians crossing, it is important to wait for them to safely clear the intersection before proceeding. This ensures the safety of both pedestrians and drivers on the road.
Traffic Flow and Following Laws: Consider the overall traffic flow and adhere to local traffic laws. If making a left turn would result in traffic disruptions or a violation of traffic regulations, it is advisable to wait for the next green light. This is especially true if the intersection is already congested, as completing the turn could cause further traffic congestion and unsafe conditions for other drivers. However, if you are already in the intersection waiting to make your turn, proceed through the turn with caution when it is safe to do so.
Intersection Visibility: Evaluate the visibility of the intersection and potential hazards. If there are obstructions or poor visibility due to weather conditions, it may be safer to make your left turn at another intersection.
Your Vehicle’s Position: Consider the position of your vehicle at the intersection. If you find yourself in a position where completing a turn safely is challenging due to your angle, it might be a better decision to wait for the next green light. This way, you can avoid any potential collisions and ensure your safety. However, if you have already pulled into the intersection in anticipation of your turn, you will likely have to wait for a safe gap in traffic and proceed with your turn.

Some Extra Tips for Left Turns at Yellow Lights While in the Intersection:

Stay focused and vigilant, avoiding distractions while in the intersection. Keep your attention on the road and anticipate the actions of other drivers and pedestrians. Cell phones are a common distraction, and using cell phones can be especially dangerous at intersections.
Anticipate signal changes and be prepared to complete the left turn promptly if the light turns yellow. Avoid hesitating excessively, as this can lead to confusion for other road users. However, remember not to act too hastily and keep an eye out for pedestrians. Being aware of signal changes as they occur can help you find a balance between hesitating too much and turning too hastily.
Communicate your intentions to other drivers by using turn signals and hand gestures when necessary. Clear and consistent signaling helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes safer driving behavior. Signals are especially important during left turns which are inherently risky maneuvers.
Remain aware of surrounding traffic conditions, anticipating potential hazards. Continuously scan the intersection and check for any sudden changes in traffic patterns. Also, be aware of pedestrians in the crosswalk.
Prioritize safety and cooperation with other road users when making a left turn. If making the turn could lead to a risky situation, it’s advisable to hold back and wait to turn until it is safe to do so.

If a driver is in the middle of a left turn and the traffic light changes to yellow, safety should be the top priority. If there is no risk of blocking traffic or breaking traffic rules, it is usually best to continue through the intersection. However, it is important for drivers to be careful, yield to other vehicles, and watch out for pedestrians and other people using the road. Being a knowledgeable and responsible driver is essential for promoting safety on the road. Always remember to prioritize safety and make informed decisions to ensure a safe and secure driving experience for everyone.

In a big city like Chicago, our traffic infrastructure is crucial for maintaining a traffic flow and allowing for safe navigation of the city. Some intersections, however, are more dangerous than others and it is important to understand these risks. E 79th and S Stoney Island is regarded as one of the most dangerous intersections in the city. The problems that persist at this intersection make left turns particularly dangerous. In this post, we will talk about some of the risks drivers should be aware of involving left turns, offer some tips on how to safely approach this junction, and discuss whether it might be best to avoid this intersection altogether.

There are multiple factors that contribute to the dangers surrounding E 79th and S Stoney Island and make turning left particularly dangerous. Let’s dive into each one of these issues:

Lots of Traffic and Congestion:

E 79th and S Stoney Island sees more traffic flow from vehicles and pedestrians than many other places in the city. The Chicago Department of Transportation recorded that this intersection experiences thousands of vehicles worth of daily traffic volume. Road users should be aware that high levels of traffic volume can significantly increase the risk of collisions, especially when making a left turn. Before turning, drivers must account for a high volume of oncoming traffic as well as pedestrian traffic.

Design Complexities:

Some danger is created due to the design of the intersection. E 79th and S Stoney Island has pedestrian crossings, turning lanes, and multiple main lanes which results in a complicated layout that may be confusing to even experienced drivers. The City of Chicago has conducted traffic engineering studies that point to the intricate design of E 79th and S Stoney Island, concluding that the risk of driver error and miscalculation is increased which can lead to accidents. This makes turning left all the more difficult, especially because drivers must be aware of oncoming traffic from different directions.

Missing Dedicated Turn Signals:

One potential problem with this intersection is its lack of dedicated turn signals. Without more specific signaling, drivers are forced to use their individual judgment when deciding whether to make a maneuver which can lead to misjudgment. Hasty left turns can cause collisions with oncoming traffic. It is usually safer to make your left turn at an intersection where there is an arrow.

Lack of Visibility:

At any intersection, poor visibility can create serious dangers. This is certainly true at E 79th and S Stoney Island. Rows of parked vehicles, obstructions due to tall buildings, and dim lighting create difficulties for drivers attempting to predict oncoming traffic or look out for pedestrians. Driving making left turns should be aware that poor visibility is a common cause of left turn-related collisions.

While this intersection poses some significant risks, there are some steps you can take to navigate a dangerous traffic situation:

Drive Defensively:

It is crucial that drivers practice driving defensively when approaching E 79th and S Stoney Island. Remember to stay alert, maintain your awareness of other drivers, and keep a safe following distance. When making a left turn, do not try and cross a tight gap in traffic. Assume that other drivers will not yield. It is also important to refrain from distracted driving and avoid your cell phone along with other distractions.

Adhere to Traffic Laws:

Your safety and that of other drivers depends on whether you follow local traffic laws. Remember to obey the speed limit, follow traffic signals, and look out for signage. When making a left turn without a dedicated green arrow, oncoming traffic has the right of way.

Check Blind Spots and Remember to Signal:

When making a left turn, using your turn signal early helps indicate your intention to other drivers. Make sure to give other drivers enough time to react and adjust their driving accordingly. Before making a lane change, make sure to check your blind spot to avoid a collision.

Be Visible:

It is especially important that your taillights, headlights, and signal lights are working. In an intersection like E 79th and S Stoney Island, where visibility can be poor, it is crucial to be as visible as possible. Not only should you use your headlights at dawn, dusk, and night, but also make sure to turn your headlights on in inclement weather like rain, snow, or fog. When making a left turn, it is crucial that oncoming traffic can see you and is aware that you intend to cross the path of traffic. You should also keep enough wiper fluid available and make sure that your windshield is clean.

Practice Patience:

Like any traffic scenario with lots of moving variables, navigating a busy intersection can be stressful. Driving aggressively can increase the risk of collision for you and the other drivers on the road. Only make your left turn when there is plenty of space in oncoming traffic. Remember to remain calm and yield when necessary. When it is time to progress through the intersection, drive with caution.

Given these risks, it might be best to avoid E 79th and S Stoney Island altogether if possible. Let’s consider some of our options:

Try a Different Route:

It may be helpful to use your navigation map to reroute your commute. Try some alternative routes with more predictable traffic patterns. Try and seek out intersections with dedicated left turn arrows. While this might add a few extra minutes to your drive, it may save you a lot of stress.

Experiment with Timing:

You may not be able to avoid the intersection entirely depending on your destination. If that is the case, experimenting with different commute times can make your drive safer. Leaving earlier to avoid peak rush hour might help you beat the traffic. The same can be said for driving later in the day. You can make a safer left turn when there is a smaller volume of oncoming traffic. While these times may be less convenient, you may find it worth it to have a safer commute.

Using Public Transportation:

Chicago has an extensive bus system that can be a helpful alternative to private transportation. Not only can taking the bus reduce your risk of a dangerous traffic accident, but public transportation is also a greener alternative.

E 79th and S Stoney Island in Chicago remains a highly dangerous intersection. When navigating this stressful junction, remember to practice safe driving techniques. When making your left turn, make sure you are aware of gaps in traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk. If possible, think about considering alternatives that could save you from having to tackle this intersection altogether. When in doubt, safety first!

Approaching Yellow Lights During Left Turns: Navigating Intersection Waiting with Safety in Mind

Chicago’s E 79th and S Stoney Island is one of our city’s most dangerous intersections, especially for left turns. How should you approach these risks, and how might you avoid them?