SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-green-arrow-protected

What does a steady green arrow pointing left mean?

A protected turn: go in the direction of the arrow.

  1. Go in the arrow's direction when clear ✔
  2. Wait for a circular green light
  3. The protected turn is ending

Why: A green arrow means you may go in the direction it points, and oncoming traffic should be stopped. Still watch for pedestrians and late drivers.

Huh, didn't know that: New York reminds drivers that even on a green arrow you must yield to traffic already in the intersection.

The dad joke
Why do green arrows make great friends? They always point you toward good things.
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References

Answer: Go in the arrow's direction when clear. A green arrow means you may go in the direction it points, and oncoming traffic should be stopped. Still watch for pedestrians and late drivers.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Section 7 www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/laws-and-rules-of-the-road
    A green arrow means GO in the direction the arrow is pointing. The green arrow allows you to make a protected turn.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 4 Traffic Control dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-4-traffic-control
    You can go in the direction of the arrow, but you must yield the right-of-way to other traffic.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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