MIDLAND POLICE TRAFFIC CAMPAIGN

TO FOCUS ON LEFT LANE AND LEFT TURN LANE USE

Between October 24 and November 6, the Midland Police Department Traffic Safety Team campaign will focus on education about and enforcement of improper left lane and left turn lane use.

Patrol officers’ efforts will be concentrated on these three Michigan Motor Vehicle Code regulations:

• Passing Lane Only: Motorists should drive in the extreme right lane except to overtake or pass another vehicle.
• Merging: Use of the left turn lane as a merging lane is prohibited.
• Quick Left Turns: In an intersection where there is a traffic signal, a driver intending to make a left turn must wait for vehicles traveling straight through in the opposite direction to clear the intersection.

Following the rules of the road allows all drivers to know what to expect on the roadway. Motorists who make quick left turns can cause through-traffic drivers to apply their brakes at intersections, which often results in rear end collisions. Merging into the turn lane from a side street or private drive can cause passing motorists to panic. In addition, driving in the lane closest to the right lane allows for faster traffic to move more easily and can help reduce road rage. 

Failure to follow these rules of the road often results in a vehicle crash that could have been easily avoided. In addition, failure to follow these rules can result in a citation with fines of $100.00 and two points added to a driving record.

For a visual representation of these driving regulations for left turns and the use of left turn lanes, visit the police department’s website at www.midland-mi.org.

The Midland Police Department’s Traffic Safety Team is dedicated to reducing crashes and injuries in the City of Midland. This is accomplished through campaigns of enforcement and education as well as citizen input. 

Citizens may voice their traffic concerns and ideas by calling the Traffic Safety Team at

989-839-4714.