With no cars behind me and stopped at a left turn light, I...

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Question by PM
Submitted on 3/12/2004
Related FAQ: FAQ: California Driving (and Surviving)
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With no cars behind me and stopped at a left turn light, I changed my mind, got into the straight lane and went through the green light. I was stopped 1/2 mile later by a (revenue) police officer who gave me a ticket which states I violated CA Vehicle Code Section 22101(d)-- basically disobeyed a traffic signal. He told me that once I was in a turn lane, I was committed to make that turn and I could not change my mind. I could find no law against changing out of a turn lane, including crossing a solid white line to change lanes if it was safe to do so. Should I fight this?

Answer by willie
Submitted on 5/1/2004
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A "traffic control device" is any sign, marking, light etc. 22101(d) says it is unlawful to disobey a traffic control device. These laws are outrageously vague.. (I suspect intentionally). So, in essence what the officer said was, you broke the law because you entered a "left turn only" marked area and didn't obey the sign to "only turn left". The question that is debatable in my mind is: When do you commit, or when does the sign apply. Even though there is NOT a law that says you cannot cross a white line.. Common sense, or "most common people" will assume it is when you enter that solid white lined area. hth...

Answer by Willie
Submitted on 5/1/2004
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After more research.... Sigh.. Caltrans Traffic Manual has the correct dope: A single solid white line is used to delineate the edge of a traffic lane where travel in the same direction is permitted on both sides of the line, but crossing the line is discouraged. Key word: discouraged.

Answer by DoubleE
Submitted on 12/19/2004
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I Think the officer was probably Barney Fife.

Answer by Beth
Submitted on 8/4/2006
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I had the same thing happen to me...EXACTLY....cept i was turning right. Should I fight it? Cuz - I agree - its a stupid ticket...

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