Canal Road/Arizona Ave Lane Direction Changes

[Anonymous]

I drive from VA to DC most Friday afternoons, hitting this intersection around 4:15 or so. About half the time cars inbound to DC on Canal try to use the middle lane to turn left onto Arizona. At that time the lane belongs to outbound traffic, and massive confusion ensues. Plus the occasional collision of course.

The directional changes for the middle lane are very poorly and sparingly signed. The only way to know what the rules are is to have them in your head. Folks who don't usually come this way are hosed.

My question is - why is this very hazardous situation not rectified? And who's responsible? DC? Park Service?

[Anonymous]

I made that mistake once, fortunately without causing an accident. Coming home from occasional trips to VA, I could often save time by taking Chain Bridge instead of 495, but I don’t consider it worth the risk.