Can I reverse if I didn't make the U-turn in one go?
2 Answers
If you didn't make the U-turn in one go, you can reverse. You should make the U-turn at the position of the frontmost line. In terms of right of way, reversing vehicles have the least priority and must yield to any vehicles behind. Additional information: Essentials of reversing: Reversing is more challenging than driving forward, mainly because visibility is limited, making it difficult to see the road and obstacles behind. Additionally, when reversing, the rear wheels become the leading wheels, and the front wheels become the trailing wheels, causing a subjective difference in perception and changes in steering control. Therefore, reversing operations may feel less smooth, convenient, agile, and accurate compared to driving forward. When reversing, pay attention to any oncoming vehicles or pedestrians in front and behind, signal your intention to reverse, and honk the horn to warn other vehicles and pedestrians. While reversing: Maintain a steady pressure on the accelerator, keeping the speed below 5 km/h, and avoid sudden speed changes to prevent stalling or dangerous situations caused by excessive reversing force. Continuously monitor progress through the rear windshield and mirrors, and adjust the direction as needed to prevent scraping the front or rear of the vehicle.
When you can't complete a U-turn in one go, it's perfectly fine to reverse and adjust your position, but it depends on the situation. I've experienced this scenario on the road—traffic rules allow reversing in non-prohibited areas as long as safety is ensured. Before reversing, always check your mirrors to confirm there are no vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles behind you, and don’t rush to hit the gas. A slow backward movement of one or two meters is usually enough to realign and try again. However, be cautious: reversing near intersections or highways can easily lead to violations, fines, or traffic disputes. So, I always assess the environmental risks beforehand. One quick reverse adjustment is safer than forcing a risky maneuver, but keep the action swift to minimize obstruction. Staying calm is key—in most cases, reversing is a reasonable choice.
