Hook turn (traffic)

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
This article or the following section is not adequately provided with supporting documents ( e.g. individual evidence ). Information without sufficient evidence could be removed soon. Please help Wikipedia by researching the information and including good evidence.
Mandatory sign in Melbourne

The hook turn is a traffic-related two-step turning maneuver at intersections that is used in city traffic. The Australian city ​​of Melbourne is best known for this , where drivers have to do a hook turn at numerous intersections in the city center. A motor vehicle that wants to turn right on a street used by the tram in the left-hand traffic there must first get into the left lane , allow the vehicles driving straight ahead on the same lane and the tram to pass and only then may turn right.

The hook turn does exist in several cities in different countries around the world; in particular, it can be permitted or even compulsory for cyclists.

The procedure

Drivers who want to turn right at an intersection should stop in front of the stationary traffic on the road that joins the left. This means that people turning left can still turn and traffic that does not want to turn right can drive straight ahead without hindrance. Those turning right, who have positioned themselves in front of the traffic from the left, turn to the right when the traffic light changes, as the straight-ahead traffic has either passed through or has been stopped. Now the traffic from the road on the left behind the turning vehicle can continue as normal.

reasons

The main reason for the traffic regulation is that tram lanes are not allowed in downtown Melbourne and the streets are often not wide enough for a right turn lane. The classified right turn is therefore not possible. The hook turn allows the tram free right of way and makes it easier to turn right, as you don't have to wait in the actual turning lane until the street is no longer crossed by the tram. The maneuver allows straight-ahead traffic to move on smoothly.

distribution

Hook turns may only be used at specially marked intersections. They mainly occur in Melbourne's central business district and the adjoining districts; This may change in the future, however, as the city administration wants to give trams the right of way at more intersections.

Web links