Can You Make a U-Turn at a Left-Turn Red Light?
2 Answers
You can make a U-turn at a left-turn red light. However, it depends on the specific situation at the time. Criteria for making a U-turn at a left-turn red light: If there is a no-left-turn sign at the intersection, you cannot make a U-turn at a left-turn red light; if there is no no-left-turn sign at the intersection, you can make a U-turn at a left-turn red light; if there is a dashed line gap in the middle of the road before the stop line, and there is no no-U-turn sign at the gap, you can make a U-turn. If there is a no-U-turn sign or a solid line at the gap, you must proceed to the stop line position to make a U-turn. Legal basis: Article 49 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates: Motor vehicles shall not make a U-turn at locations with no-U-turn or no-left-turn signs or markings, as well as at railway crossings, crosswalks, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, tunnels, or other dangerous sections. Motor vehicles may make a U-turn at locations without no-U-turn or no-left-turn signs or markings, but they shall not obstruct the normal passage of other vehicles and pedestrians.
I've been driving for twenty years, and experience has taught me to be extra careful when making U-turns at left-turn red lights. Generally, a red light signal means no passage is allowed, and you can't make a U-turn arbitrarily because there might still be oncoming traffic, which can easily lead to accidents. Once, I was in a hurry to turn and almost collided with a straight-going vehicle. Since then, I've learned to always check the traffic signals and signs first: if there's no green arrow permitting a U-turn or no sign prohibiting it, you absolutely must not act recklessly. You also need to observe the intersection situation. Sometimes, road signs indicate that U-turns are prohibited, so just wait patiently for the green light. Safety comes first; the rules are there to protect everyone, so don't take unnecessary risks. Additionally, regulations vary by city. For example, some small intersections may have no restrictions, but major thoroughfares in big cities enforce them strictly. I recommend that beginners develop the habit of waiting for the green light or confirming it's safe before proceeding. Don’t risk big trouble just to save a few minutes.
