Vänstersvängar

Vänstersvängar, in the context of traffic, refers to the act of turning left at an intersection or along a roadway. This maneuver is a fundamental aspect of road navigation and is subject to specific rules and regulations in most jurisdictions to ensure safety and traffic flow.

When making a vänstersväng, drivers are typically required to yield to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, especially if there is no dedicated left-turn signal. The driver intending to turn left should position their vehicle in the leftmost lane of their direction of travel and signal their intention to turn well in advance. The turn itself should be executed smoothly and within the designated lanes to avoid obstructing other traffic.

In some countries, left turns on red lights are permitted after a complete stop, provided it is safe to do so and no signs prohibit it. However, in others, this is strictly forbidden. Traffic signals often include specific phases for left turns, such as a green arrow, which indicates that vehicles may proceed with the turn without yielding to oncoming traffic. When a flashing yellow arrow is displayed, drivers should yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before completing the turn.

The safety of vänstersvängar is a significant concern for traffic engineers and safety advocates, as they are often associated with a higher risk of collisions, particularly right-angle crashes, due to the conflict with oncoming traffic. Clear signage, well-designed intersections, and driver attentiveness are crucial for minimizing these risks.