Left Turns Only
The center lane is a designated left turn lane. Read the facts to understand. Bicyclists are guided to Take the Full Lane leaving no legal way to pass.
The center lane is for left turns only.
“Use the center left turn lane to prepare for and make a left turn or U-turn. It is not a regular traffic lane or passing lane. You may only drive for 200 feet in the center left turn lane.” California DMV Handbook
When a pedestrian was tragically killed in 2007 by a vehicle illegally using the median, the Sausalito Police Department clarified that the center lane is for left turns only:
“[Sausalito police Capt. Don] MacQuarrie said it’s not unusual for garbage trucks to use the 11-foot-wide center median during collections, although driving in the lane is not permitted other than turning into and out of driveways. ”
It is unlawful to use the center lane to pass a vehicle or bicycle. CVC 21460.5 (c)
But everyone drives in the center lane to pass bicycles … including school bus drivers, some of the safest drivers on the road. Why is this happening???
Turn Lane or Suicide Lane?
The center lane of a bidirectional road, used by traffic proceeding in both directions, for example for passing or turning. - wiktionary
It is only lawful to stop in the turn lane if one is waiting to turn left. CVC 21460.5 (c)
A turn lane to nowhere. The dead space encourages visitors to stop in the middle of the road to enjoy the beautiful view.
It is unlawful to deliver goods in the center lane. CVC 21460.5 (c)
Sausalito allows commercial vehicles to use the turn lane to deliver goods.
Study Results for Center Lane Parking
The study shows personal vehicles use the center lane more than commercial. Sausalito Police allows commercial vehicles to deliver from center lane, but not personal vehicles.
Parametrix explains the center lane parking observations.
Curbside delivery would be safer and lawful.
Read more about how Curbside Delivery could help from the Proposal.
