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Can you briefly drive into an open oncoming lane to get to your turn lane?

Trooper Steve explains Florida traffic laws

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.

Trooper Steve on Tuesday was asked, “May I travel into an oncoming travel lane in order to get into a left turn lane?”

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“I will say this as politely as possible: absolutely not,” Trooper Steve said.

Drivers see this move quite a bit when travel lines back up and there is not a barrier protecting oncoming travel lanes.

“A driver will see that the traffic is backed up, then travel into an oncoming lane simply so they can make entry into their left turn lane,” Trooper Steve said. “The markings on the road are there for a reason. Whether a positive barrier or painting, this should be treated as an area where you are not to travel.”

If needed, watch the video at the very top of this story for a visual explanation.

If you have a question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.

For more Ask Trooper Steve content, click or tap here.


About the Authors
Daniel Dahm headshot

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

Steve Montiero headshot

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

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