New York DMV Permit Written TestRoad SignsMedium
You are making a left turn at an intersection. The traffic light for your direction displays a solid green circular light, but the left-turn arrow is dark. What action should you take?
- AWait for a green left-turn arrow before attempting to turn.
- BProceed with the left turn immediately, as the solid green light grants permission.
- CYield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then complete the left turn if safe.
- DTreat the intersection as a four-way stop and proceed when it is your turn.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then complete the left turn if safe.
A solid green circular light without a green arrow for your turn means you may proceed with the turn, but you must yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians before completing the turn. This is known as a 'protected/unprotected' left turn situation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Waiting for a non-existent or unlit arrow when there's a solid green light is incorrect; the solid green permits the turn with caution.
- B. Turning immediately without yielding is unsafe and illegal.
- D. A solid green light does not indicate a four-way stop intersection.
Solid Green Light (Unprotected Left)
A steady circular green traffic light indicates you may proceed straight or turn right or left, but if turning left, you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- Allows movement in any direction unless restricted by other signs.
- Left turns require yielding to opposing traffic and pedestrians.
- Differs from a green arrow, which grants a protected turn.
Memory trick: Green light, go, but know your flow.