What is the purpose of "turn lanes" at intersections?

The primary purpose of turn lanes at intersections is to improve traffic flow and reduce delays for vehicles that are turning. By providing dedicated lanes for turning traffic, turn lanes help to separate these vehicles from through traffic. This reduces the likelihood of conflicts between turning and through vehicles, allowing both groups of vehicles to move more efficiently.

When vehicles can turn from a separate lane, it minimizes disruptions to the flow of straight-moving traffic, thus enhancing overall intersection performance. Additionally, turn lanes can help reduce wait times for drivers who are making turns, as they can queue in a designated space without blocking vehicles that are continuing straight through the intersection.

This efficient movement of traffic is crucial in urban settings where intersections can often become congested and where delays can have significant ripple effects on the overall transportation system.