Zagreb intersection chaos: Drivers ignore left-turn ban, causing gridlock

A busy intersection in Zagreb has become a daily scene of traffic chaos, primarily due to drivers ignoring a temporary ban on left turns. The junction of Selska Street and Zagrebačka Avenue has seen drivers waiting for opportunities to turn left, consequently blocking the intersection and impeding traffic flow for others.

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15 to 8 in the morning, Selska – Zagrebačka intersection. Exactly four cars pass in 75 seconds. No police.

This issue has been ongoing for over a month, exacerbated by ongoing construction work on an overpass that began in May. Since July 15, a temporary traffic regulation has prohibited left turns from Zagrebačka Avenue onto Selska Street and vice versa. This measure is expected to remain in effect until August 30.

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And so it has been for over a month, left turns are made from all directions despite the bans. Police are maybe there once a day, then absent for a few days, and so on.

According to a video shared by a Zagreb resident, in a 75-second period during morning rush hour, only four cars managed to pass through the intersection. Many drivers are seen attempting illegal left turns, waiting for oncoming traffic to clear, which causes significant delays. This behavior has frustrated local residents and drivers, with some reporting near-accidents.

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I almost had a side collision with one of those making illegal turns.

Commentators on social media platforms have noted the inconsistent police presence, suggesting that more frequent patrols could help alleviate the problem. Some residents living near the intersection complain of constant honking throughout the day. Ironically, attempting these illegal turns does not always save time, as drivers might find it faster to proceed to the next intersection and make a legal U-turn.

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I live at the intersection. So, from morning to all day, all I hear is honking.