Can You Make a U-Turn at a Red Light in the Same Lane as Right Turn?

[IsabelFitz]

You can make a U-turn at a red light in the same lane as right turn. Traffic regulations clearly state: when there is no no-U-turn sign or no-U-turn signal on the road, regardless of whether the current signal is red or green, the driver can choose to make a U-turn. Of course, the premise is that it does not affect road traffic or hinder the passage of other vehicles. Precautions for U-turns: When making a U-turn, you should turn on the left turn signal in advance, and the maximum driving speed should not exceed 30 kilometers per hour. Do not hinder other vehicles and pedestrians traveling normally. Conditions allowing U-turns: There is a U-turn signal or sign; no U-turn sign but left turns are allowed (no no-U-turn sign is set); U-turns can be made at dashed lines; U-turns can be made at yellow grid lines; U-turns can be made on the side of the green belt with dashed lines. Conditions prohibiting U-turns: U-turns are prohibited where there are no-U-turn signs or no-left-turn signs; U-turns are prohibited at crosswalks; U-turns are prohibited when there is no left-turn lane; U-turns are prohibited within the second left-turn lane line; U-turns are prohibited at solid yellow lines; U-turns are prohibited on highways.

[Eugenia]

As a seasoned driver with twenty years of experience, I've seen many such situations. Once on a main road, the right-turn and U-turn lanes were shared. At a red light, I hesitated whether to make a U-turn, and the car behind me honked frantically, almost leading to an argument. In fact, under the traffic rules of most cities, U-turns are not allowed when the red light is on, even if the lane is shared with right-turn functionality. This is because a U-turn requires crossing the opposite straight lane, which is highly risky. Right turns may be permitted safely, but a U-turn is considered a separate action unless supported by a green arrow or clear signage. I often see fellow drivers misjudge and get into trouble, such as getting stuck in the middle of the road causing congestion or being fined by traffic police. Safety first—I recommend checking traffic signals or road signs first. If in doubt, wait for the green light or find a safer intersection to perform the maneuver. Don’t take unnecessary risks that could cause trouble for yourself.

[Alexandra]

I've been fascinated by traffic signals since childhood and have studied numerous cases. On shared right-turn and U-turn lanes, making a U-turn during a red light is generally not permitted. According to standard rules, a red light means stop, and a U-turn counts as a full turn requiring a green arrow. Right turns might be tolerated, but U-turns are different—they easily cause traffic conflicts. For example, opposing straight-moving vehicles might suddenly appear during your U-turn, creating significant hazards. I've reviewed legal materials, and in 99% of regions, this practice violates regulations, ranging from fines to causing accidents. Therefore, develop the habit of observing signal statuses and intersection signs to avoid misjudgments due to impatience or haste. Driving isn't just a skill; it's a responsibility. Following rules protects you.

[DiGavin]

I remember once when I was driving in the city, at an intersection where the red light, right turn, and U-turn shared the same lane. I mistakenly thought I could make a U-turn, but as soon as I started, I got a minor rear-end collision from the car behind me. A profound lesson: don’t take things for granted! U-turns are usually prohibited at red lights because a shared lane doesn’t imply priority. Making a U-turn is more complex and time-consuming than a right turn, potentially blocking traffic or colliding with oncoming vehicles. Under standard traffic rules, unless there’s a clear green light indication, it’s better to wait or find another opportunity to maneuver. Safety should always be the top priority.