Turning right on red from an inner turn lane is legal move

Q

James Corns of Yucaipa asked a traffic question about right turns. On a three-lane road with the right lane designated for right turns at the intersection, the center lane designated for drivers going straight or turning right, and the left lane for straight travel only, he wants to know what’s legal on a red light.

When the light is red, is it legal for drivers to turn right from that middle lane that is marked for making a right turn or going straight?

A

The answer is yes, this is legal. Drivers

turning right from the middle of these three lanes would need to turn into the second lane from the right on the street they are turning on to, which will have at least two lanes, (otherwise this right-turn-from-the-middle-lane would not be an option), said Officer Dan Olivas from the California Highway Patrol, Inland Division. If such a right turn on a red is not allowed, Olivas said, there should be a sign saying so.

Road tripping this summer?

Ahead of the Fourth of

July holiday and summer road trip season, On the Road would like to share some tips about reducing gas consumption. Here are five ways you can get the most out of your gas tank, courtesy of AAA and State Farm.

• Check tire pressure — underinflated tires can decrease fuel economy. Keep your tires rotated and inflated to the pressure recommended for your vehicle.

• Don’t speed or go over the speed limit — driving faster burns more gas.

• Make your vehicle more aerodynamic and lighter — remove unused roof racks and carry only what’s necessary. Extra weight on top of, or in the vehicle, will use more gas.

• Don’t hit the gas pedal if the light ahead is red or you are approaching a stop sign. As you approach, take your foot off the gas pedal early and let your car coast before you hit the brakes to stop.

• Avoid idling in your vehicle for a long time. If you need to wait in your car for a few minutes, turn off the engine.

Five more quick gas-saving tips: drive less; combine errands and do them all in one trip, ride your bicycle or walk instead; share rides or carpool; and use public transportation.

`Seniors on the move'

Finally, on the subject of transportation, here’s some good driving news for senior citizens in Norco who need a ride for their errands or medical office visits.

The city of Norco operates a “Seniors on the Move” free door-to-door transportation service available to all Norco residents 50 years and older, able-bodied Norco resident military veterans 50 and older, and disabled Norco residents of any age. This program provides free transportation to residents within a 30-mile radius outside of Norco city limits for grocery shopping, medical visits, obtaining prescriptions, paying bills, postal services, banking and the like.

Reservations are firstcome, first-served, and residents are encouraged to make a reservation at least one week in advance. To confirm hours and trip availability, please call the Senior Center at 951270-5647 or email seniorcenter@ci.norco.ca.us.