Joplin Police answer question: Can I use the center turn lane to merge into traffic?

(From the Joplin Police Department)

We often get the question; Can I use the center turn lane to merge into traffic? 

There is no simple answer to this question because many cities across Missouri have ordinances restricting it. The Missouri Drivers handbook states “drivers should not use this lane when entering the roadway from a side street." 

For those of you in Joplin, you can use the center lane to merge IF you pull directly into the center turn lane and stop immediately to wait for traffic to clear. You cannot enter this lane and travel in it or speed up to merge. You must also make sure it’s completely clear before entering the normal traffic lanes to ensure you don’t slow down or impede other traffic. 

It’s important to understand that if you use this lane from a side street or parking lot and a crash occurs, you will likely be found at fault for the crash. Generally, insurance companies will place fault on the driver using this lane to merge and you could be cited for careless driving if a crash occurs because of it. 

We don’t recommend its use from parking lots or side streets because of the risk involved. It’s better to either make a right turn or wait for a clear left turn into a traffic lane. We also prefer not to use it because some cities in Missouri have restrictions on it where you could be cited and its best to create the habit of not using it for that purpose. 

It’s important to reiterate that if you do use the center lane for this purpose, you can be cited for moving forward in this lane. You must stop immediately when you enter it. If you’re driving outside of Joplin, remember that the rules may be different.

Thanks to Katti, Andrew, and Jordan for recommending this week's tip.