What is the purpose of turn lanes on a roadway?

Turn lanes on a roadway are specifically constructed to facilitate safe and efficient turning maneuvers for vehicles. When a driver wants to make a right or left turn, the presence of a designated turn lane allows them to do so without obstructing the flow of through traffic, which helps maintain overall traffic movement and reduces the likelihood of rear-end collisions. These lanes are engineered to provide adequate space for vehicles to decelerate and position themselves for their intended turn while minimizing disruption to other vehicles that are continuing straight. This design promotes safety for both turning vehicles and those proceeding straight, ultimately enhancing overall traffic efficiency.