Can you ever make a TURN from a STRAIGHT ONLY lane?

[AviatorTom]

You're driving and approaching an intersection with this sign. A two-car rear-end crash is blocking the left lane, and you want to turn left.

In this case, can you legally make a left turn from the center Straight-Only lane?

What if the right lane is blocked and you want to turn right?

In this case, can you legally make a right turn from the center Straight-Only lane?

Let's generalize the question...

Are there situations when you can legally turn from a straight-only lane?

[OlderAndWiser]

When you ask, "is it legal?" there is a question of what the published traffic laws allow, but the question of "legal" really depends on what the judge says if you find yourself in traffic court. In my county, I have known the traffic court judge for about 35 years. He would be rather flexible even if he didn't know me, but I'm fairly certain I could turn left or right from the center lane if the turn lane was blocked and any citation I received would be tossed out of court.

[LiamJHayden]

Generally, yes, as long as it is safe, because the proper lane is obstructed.

[purplepoppy]

When there isn't a police car behind you.

Real question is can other genders use the straight only lane and why hasn't the term been banned.

[exitseven]

Where I grew up, anything goes.

[AimeeKyle]

If an accident blocked either turn lane I don’t think there would be any issues turning from the straight lane (as long as no officer is there directing traffic - even then, you could turn on your turn light, and they would either wave the move off or turn and stop anyone coming from other directions ).

Also note, be extra careful making the turn. If you get in an accident it would likely be your fault.

[najekim]

If the turn lane is blocked (backed up doesn't count), you may safely.

[BCRanger10]

If you're in an action movie, have at it!

[Tiffanytrans]

Sure, if they're LGBTQIA2S+.

[WanderingLoveWizard]

Yes, it's legal

[WanderingLoveWizard]

In the situation you described