Perfecting the U-turn; turn signal optional
To the editor:
Now that classes are winding down and students are getting ready for their finals I have been able to do a little more traveling around. In the last 10 years or so China has undertaken a massive program to build a transportation infrastructure befitting a more modern society. Most cities with over a million people have some form of underground transit system. More highways are being built and widened. This of course is due to the fact that there is a growing automobile culture in the country.
When America was beginning its love affair with the car it was often at the expense of any pedestrian who happened to be in the street. Stories abound of people learning to drive by traveling around the harness track. If the driver could circle it safely a few times he could go out on the road. You also at one time could get your driver’s license from Sears and Roebuck. Throwing caution to the wind was second nature for most drivers.
The same is true here in China. While they have widened the roads, there is no understanding of the purpose of a breakdown lane. So you will have street with five lanes for cars going in one direction, a bicycle lane, and a divider with the same number of lanes on the opposite side. As a driver, your job is to keep moving and not scrape any paint. Big intersections here in Guangzhou often have an overpass for through traffic. But the most intriguing aspect of travel is the U-turn lane.
The art of the U-ee is being perfected here. Did you miss the turnoff? look for the U-turn spot. Sometimes clearly marked and other times just an empty spot in the divider, you approach it and if you are lucky you will be able to merge with traffic going in the reverse direction. At peak rush hour you can often tell where the tie-ups will be from the long line of people waiting to make a left turn. This is not a place for the back-seat driver.
Part of the thrill of taking a taxi is experiencing the U-turn. A good driver is one who can make the turn without stopping. Best to close your eyes. By the way, turn signals are not always necessary. Often they cause more confusion. Do not try hand signals because there is not enough time or room. Even more fun is when the bus route has a U-turn built in.
Makes for an interesting day.
Orpheus Allison
Guangzhou, China
orpheusallison@mac.com
