What is the purpose of a center lane?

The center lane is specifically designated for left turns only, serving as a safe space for vehicles to prepare to make a left turn either into a street or a driveway without disrupting the flow of traffic traveling in the straight-through lanes. This lane is usually marked with dashed lines that indicate its purpose and help guide drivers. By using the center lane for left turns, drivers can minimize the risk of accidents and improve roadway safety, as it allows them to wait for an appropriate gap in oncoming traffic while avoiding congestion in the lanes primarily used for through traffic.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the intended use of the center lane. Emergency stops should be done on the shoulder of the road or in designated emergency areas, not in the center lane. Right turns are generally made from the rightmost lane of traffic. Parking is regulated to specific areas, and the center lane is not intended for parking, typically prohibited for such use to ensure traffic can flow smoothly.