Can You Make a U-Turn at a Left Turn with a U-Turn Sign When the Light is Red?
2 Answers
Vehicles can make a U-turn at an intersection with a U-turn sign even when the traffic light is red. According to Article 49 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law," "Motor vehicles may make a U-turn at locations where there are no signs or markings prohibiting U-turns or left turns, provided that they do not hinder the passage of other vehicles and pedestrians traveling normally." The following situations prohibit U-turns: 1. There is a sign prohibiting left turns or U-turns; 2. Crossing solid lines to make a U-turn is prohibited; 3. If there are no dashed lines in the middle of the road and the median barrier has no gaps, U-turns are not allowed when the light is red. In such cases, crossing the stop line to make a U-turn is required. If there is no U-turn signal, drivers should observe the left turn signal and follow the principle of stopping at red lights and proceeding at green lights; 4. U-turns are prohibited at pedestrian crossings.
Making a U-turn at a red light, even if there's a U-turn sign, is a risk I wouldn't recommend taking. A red light means stop and wait, and performing a U-turn would encroach into the opposite lane where oncoming vehicles might be speeding through, potentially causing a serious accident. With over a decade of driving experience, I've witnessed numerous collisions caused by reckless U-turns. Even if signs permit it, traffic signals take precedence in controlling all vehicle movements; when facing a red light, you should come to a complete stop and wait for the green light to safely complete your U-turn. Regulations may vary by city, but for your own safety, waiting a few extra seconds won't hurt. Road conditions can be complex, and poor visibility increases the chance of misjudging distances—cultivating good driving habits is key. Don't forget, illegal U-turns are also prone to being caught by traffic cameras, leading to fines and unnecessary hassle. Safety should always be the top priority, and obeying traffic signals is the most worry-free approach.
