Michigan left

English

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Noun

Michigan left (plural Michigan lefts)

1. An intersection design in which (for countries that drive on the right) left turns are not allowed and vehicles instead proceed past the intersection, make a U-turn, and then make a right turn; the 'turn' made at such an intersection.
   • 2018 April 3, Paul Vachon, Moon Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Moon Travel, →ISBN, page 286:

     Ordinarily, no left turn is allowed at an intersection where a Michigan left is in place. Instead, to turn left onto an intersecting road, it's necessary to continue past the intersection and make a U-turn at the median crossover, double back to your intended street, and finally turn right.

   • 2023 January 12, Joe Spano, Quagmire, AuthorHouse, →ISBN:

     Glenn followed Lucky out of the driveway, drove about a mile before taking a Michigan left across the divided highway and pulled into a lighted parking lot. Glenn looked up to see a blinking neon purple sign that read Jon Jon's. Not what he was expecting when Lucky said he knew a quiet little place.