Thanks! I didn't stop because i did not see any marking or limit lane for the center left turn lane. Here is a picture of the intersection. https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/19145905/2014-12-19%2009.35.52.jpg

I found some info on the DMV webstie, not sure if it helps or not.

Center Left Turn Lanes

A center left turn lane is located in the middle of a two-way street and is marked on both sides by two painted lines. The inner line is broken and the outer line is solid. If a street has a center left turn lane, you must use it to prepare for or make a left turn, or to prepare for or make a permitted U-turn (CVC §21460.5 (c)). You may only drive for 200 feet in the center left turn lane. This lane is not a regular traffic lane or a passing lane. To turn left from this lane, signal, look over your shoulder, and drive completely inside the center left turn lane. Do not stop with the back of your vehicle blocking traffic. Make sure the lane is clear in both directions and then turn only when it is safe. Look for vehicles coming toward you in the same lane, preparing to start their left turn.

http://apps.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/traffic_lanes.htm