Riga bans left turns at intersection, confusing drivers

Recent traffic changes at the intersection of Ģertrūdes and Valmieras streets in Riga have confused drivers who miss the new signs and wait at a traffic light for permission to continue along their planned route, LSM reported.

Left turns at the intersection are now prohibited as public transport routes are being replanned because of repairs on Ģertrūdes Street. Some drivers wait for a green light, then turn right without understanding why they cannot turn left.

Ieva Grīsle, a project coordinator in Riga’s municipal External Communications Department, said warning signs had been placed in three locations, including near 106 Ģertrūdes Street. She said the signs should be sufficient to alert drivers, but familiar habits often take over.

Grīsle said the city did not want to change traffic flows and then reverse its decisions while the public transport network was being replanned. The new route has not yet been finalised, and the current traffic arrangements may still change.

The municipality says the left-turn ban is intended to improve traffic safety and prevent additional congestion. Grīsle described it as the most suitable solution for the intersection for now, but said it was not yet possible to say when plans for public transport would be settled.