question DC traffic law

[u_hsen]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? DC

There is this street where it's 2 lanes, left lane has a "Left turn only."

however, the right lane doesn't have a specific sign.

The perpendicular street (the street I am left turning on) has 2 lanes.

However, everytime i make a left turn, tried to get on the far right lane on the street i turned on, there is a car making a left turn from the right lane too that will almost hit me.

is this legal for the right lane to make a left turn, where there is only 1 "left turn only" sign on the left lane?

 

[HighwayMan]

Generally it is illegal to make a left turn from the right lane unless there are traffic control devices at the intersection (like signs and/or pavement markings) which permit it.

 

[FlyingRon]

And in addition to HighwayMan's comment, when you turn from the left lane, you're supposed to turn into the left most lane on the intersecting street (even if there's not anybody trying to turn outside of you).

 

[HighwayMan]

And in addition to HighwayMan's comment, when you turn from the left lane, you're supposed to turn into the left most lane on the intersecting street (even if there's not anybody trying to turn outside of you).

Yes, that's how I was taught to drive, although if it's like around here it is not mandated by statute.

 

[FlyingRon]

Yes, that's how I was taught to drive, although if it's like around here it is not mandated by statute.

Here's the DC law.

2203.1The driver of a vehicle intending to turn at an intersection shall do so as set forth in this section, unless a different method of turning is directed by signs, signals or markings at the intersection.

2203.2 Where a specific method of turning at an intersection is indicated by signs, signals or markings, turns shall be made in accordance with the directions of those signs, signals or markings.

2203.3 Both the approach for a right turn and a right turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge or the roadway.

2203.4 Approach for a left turn from a two-way street into a two-way street shall be made in that portion of the right half of the roadway nearest the center line of the roadway, and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection to the right of the center line of the roadway being entered
​

Addresses both issues.

 

[HighwayMan]

2203.4 Approach for a left turn from a two-way street into a two-way street shall be made in that portion of the right half of the roadway nearest the center line of the roadway, and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection to the right of the center line of the roadway being entered


Addresses both issues.

Not really. To me, it's seems open to interpretation. Saying "to the right of the center line" means any lane as long as it's to the right of the center line.

 

[FlyingRon]

Not really. To me, it's seems open to interpretation. Saying "to the right of the center line" means any lane as long as it's to the right of the center line.

I guess you're right. The right turn case has the provision, but I guess you're allowed to careen over to the far lane on lefts in DC