Can You Make a U-Turn at a Left-Turn Red Light?
2 Answers
Here are several scenarios regarding whether you can make a U-turn at a left-turn red light: 1. At intersections without signs or markings prohibiting U-turns or left turns, U-turns are allowed. According to relevant laws and regulations, U-turns are permitted at intersections without signs or markings prohibiting U-turns or left turns, provided they do not interfere with other vehicles or pedestrians proceeding normally. 2. Based on road markings, if the intersection markings are dashed lines, U-turns are allowed. If not, check the traffic light and intersection signs. If the markings near the intersection change to dashed lines, vehicles can make U-turns at the dashed sections. Conversely, if there are no dashed lines and the lines remain solid, you must wait for the green light before making a U-turn. If you're unsure whether a U-turn is allowed at a red light, simply observe if there are any relevant signs at the intersection and follow their instructions. 3. The prerequisite for making a U-turn is that it must not affect the normal passage of other vehicles or pedestrians. According to traffic laws and regulations, as long as there is no sign prohibiting U-turns at the intersection, U-turns are completely permissible. However, before making a U-turn, always check for relevant signs or markings first to determine if a U-turn is allowed at a red light. Of course, the prerequisite remains that the U-turn must not affect other vehicles or pedestrians proceeding normally.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and I never make a U-turn at a red light. A red light means you must stop, including all turning maneuvers—U-turns are also considered a movement and violating this rule can easily lead to accidents. Once, at an intersection, I thought I could make a U-turn since there were no cars coming from the opposite direction, but I got caught by a traffic camera and fined. The traffic officer explained that unless there’s a dedicated U-turn signal or a sign explicitly allowing it, any turning movement is prohibited during a red light. Making a U-turn during a green light is safer because it gives drivers more time to assess road conditions. If you really need to make a U-turn, it’s best to find a safe spot like a pull-over area or a designated U-turn zone. Developing the habit of checking traffic signals and signs can help avoid trouble, and it’s also a good idea to use a navigation app before driving to confirm route rules—this ensures a smooth journey and even saves some fuel costs. Safety comes first—stopping properly at a red light is always the right move.
