Which phase allows drivers making left turns to safely cross conflicting traffic streams?

The phase that allows drivers making left turns to safely cross conflicting traffic streams is the protected left turn. This phase provides a dedicated signal indication specifically for left-turning vehicles, often accompanied by a green arrow. During this phase, left-turning drivers have the right of way while oncoming traffic is stopped, ensuring that they can make their turn without interference from conflicting traffic.

In contrast, a permissive left turn involves a green signal but does not provide a dedicated arrow, requiring the driver to yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians. This situation increases the potential for conflict as left-turning vehicles must watch for oncoming traffic, which is not the case for protected left turns.

Dedicated left turns may imply a specified lane for left-turning traffic but do not necessarily indicate protection from conflicting traffic. Concurrent left turns occur when vehicles turning left and vehicles moving straight do so simultaneously without a dedicated signal for left turns.

The nature of a protected left turn is essential for safety and efficiency at intersections where left turns involve crossing busy streams of traffic.