NM Intersections
You are stopped at a green left turn arrow in New Mexico. The arrow turns to a steady green ball. What does the new signal mean?
- Continue your protected left turn at any time
- You may still turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians ✓
- Left turns are now prohibited and you must go straight
- Stop and wait for the next protected arrow
The answer explained
A green arrow is a protected turn. Oncoming traffic is stopped. When the signal changes to a steady green ball, the protection is gone. You may still turn left in New Mexico, but you must yield to oncoming traffic that has the same green ball and to any pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk. Move into the intersection, keep your wheels straight while waiting, and complete the turn when a safe gap appears.
Why this rule exists
Left turns across opposing traffic are the highest risk routine maneuver a driver makes. Treating the green ball as if it were still protected is a leading cause of front to side crashes at signalized intersections.
The most common mistake
Drivers turn their wheels left while waiting in the intersection. If they are rear ended their car is pushed into oncoming traffic. Keep wheels straight until the moment you actually turn.
New Mexico specific note
New Mexico tests on flash flood, dust storm, and high altitude driving conditions. For this question in particular, the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division aligns with the standard interpretation explained above. Always verify against the most recent New Mexico driver handbook before relying on these details for the live exam.
Study tip
Arrow means protected, ball means permitted. Permitted always requires yielding before you turn.
Related questions for New Mexico
- You are driving in New Mexico and you approach a red octagonal sign at an intersection. What is required of you?
- While driving on a rural road in New Mexico you see a yellow diamond shaped sign with a curved arrow and the number 35. What does it mean?
- You are driving on an interstate in New Mexico and see a large green sign overhead listing the next exit and a destination city. What kind of sign is this?
- You arrive at a four way stop in New Mexico at the same time as another vehicle on your right. Who has the right of way?
- What is the typical maximum posted speed limit on a rural interstate highway in New Mexico?
- In New Mexico how close are you allowed to park to a fire hydrant?