In South Australia, the “Turn Left on Red Permitted After Stopping” (LTOR) rule allows drivers to make a left turn at certain intersections, even when the traffic light is red. This rule, however, only applies under specific conditions and at designated intersections. Knowing when and how to apply this rule is essential for learner drivers and overseas visitors to navigate intersections legally and safely, especially for learners aiming to pass the Vehicle on Road Test (VORT) or those undergoing an overseas license conversion road test in South Australia.
1. Where Can You Turn Left on Red?
The LTOR rule is only applicable at intersections marked with a specific sign that reads, “Left Turn on Red Permitted After Stopping.” If you don’t see this sign, you cannot turn left on red, regardless of traffic conditions.
2. How to Safely Execute a Left Turn on Red
• Stop Completely: Even if the sign permits a left turn on red, you must come to a complete stop at the designated stop line.
• Check for Traffic and Pedestrians: After stopping, look for oncoming vehicles and pedestrians. Yield to any traffic approaching from the right and make sure the pedestrian path is clear.
• Proceed When Safe: Only turn left if it’s completely safe to do so. Ensure you’re aware of all surrounding traffic to avoid potential accidents.
3. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
• Not Stopping Fully: Failing to come to a complete stop before turning is a critical error that can lead to penalties.
• Turning Without the Sign: The LTOR rule is only applicable where the sign is installed. Don’t assume all intersections allow this turn.
• Getting Distracted by Oncoming Traffic: Once stopped, some learners reposition their car slightly for a better view of oncoming traffic. In doing so, they often focus too intently on checking traffic from the right and forget to monitor the traffic light. This can result in a missed green light or even unsafe movements when the light changes.
• Not Stopping Again When Second in Line: Similar to the common mistake at stop signs, learners sometimes forget to stop again when they’re the second vehicle in line for a left turn on red. If the first car turns, the second driver needs to come to a complete stop again before proceeding. Failing to do so is a violation of the rule.
4. Penalties for Violating the LTOR Rule
Turning left on red without stopping, ignoring LTOR signs, or failing to yield to other road users can result in fines and demerit points. South Australia enforces strict road safety regulations, so it’s crucial to follow these steps precisely.
5. Practice and Familiarization
For learner drivers and overseas visitors, it’s beneficial to practice the LTOR maneuver under the guidance of a driving instructor who understands South Australia’s road rules. Practicing helps build confidence in making safe and legal left turns on red where permitted.
Understanding and correctly applying the LTOR rule enhances road safety and ensures compliance with South Australian road laws. Always prioritize safety by stopping fully, checking for traffic, and proceeding only when it’s safe.
With these tips and the provided visual aids, learner drivers and visitors can confidently apply the LTOR rule and navigate South Australia’s intersections safely.
6. References
Department for Infrastructure and Transport. (n.d.). Appendix A – List of current sites with LTOR installed. [Image]. Government of South Australia.
Department for Infrastructure and Transport. (n.d.). Left Turn on Red Permitted After Stopping – Traffic Light Diagram. [Image]. Government of South Australia.
Department for Infrastructure and Transport. (2023). The Driver’s Handbook. Government of South Australia. Available at: https://mylicence.sa.gov.au/my-car-licence/the-drivers-handbook [Accessed 3 Nov. 2024].
Road Safety Commission. (2023). Left Turn on Red Rules. Government of South Australia. Available at: https://mylicence.sa.gov.au/road-safety/left-turn-on-red [Accessed 3 Nov. 2024].
