New York DMV Permit Written TestRules of the Road and Traffic LawsMedium
You are making a left turn at an intersection with a green light. An oncoming vehicle also has a green light and is approaching from the opposite direction. Who has the right-of-way?
- AThe vehicle making the left turn always has the right-of-way.
- BThe oncoming vehicle has the right-of-way.
- CYou have the right-of-way because you entered the intersection first.
- DWhoever flashes their headlights first.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The oncoming vehicle has the right-of-way.
When making a left turn on a green light, you must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic that is proceeding straight. The oncoming vehicle has the right-of-way because they are not turning or changing lanes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; left-turning vehicles must yield to oncoming straight traffic.
- C. While entering first can sometimes grant right-of-way in specific yield situations, it does not override the rule for left turns against oncoming straight traffic.
- D. Flashing headlights is not a legal way to claim right-of-way.
Left Turn Right-of-Way
The rule that a driver making a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic proceeding straight.
- Applies at intersections with green lights.
- Oncoming straight traffic has priority.
- Only complete the turn when it is safe and clear.
- Use a dedicated left-turn arrow if available, which grants right-of-way.
Memory trick: Straight is great, left must wait!