Can You Make a U-Turn at a Red Light with One Solid and One Dashed Yellow Line?
2 Answers
You cannot make a U-turn at a red light with one solid and one dashed yellow line. Making a U-turn at a red light at an intersection is generally considered running a red light. Even if there is a combination of solid and dashed lines, vehicles are not allowed to make a U-turn. Conditions under which a U-turn is allowed with one solid and one dashed yellow line: If there are no signs prohibiting U-turns or left turns, you can make a U-turn when the traffic light turns green, but you must not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians proceeding normally. Situations where a U-turn is allowed while driving: Drivers should check for any explicit no-U-turn signs. After confirming there are no such signs, observe the road markings: single or double solid yellow lines prohibit U-turns, and you must wait until you have passed the markings before making a U-turn. If the road has two yellow lines—one dashed and one solid—the side with the dashed line allows U-turns. Meaning of the yellow solid and dashed line: When painted on a road section, the yellow solid and dashed line separates opposing traffic flows. The side with the solid yellow line prohibits vehicles from overtaking, crossing, or turning around, while the side with the dashed yellow line permits overtaking, crossing, or turning around if it is safe to do so.
I remember encountering this issue while driving. Making a U-turn at a red light is absolutely not allowed because a red light means you must stop and wait. The combination of solid and dashed yellow lines only affects the rules for crossing that section of the road—for example, the dashed side allows overtaking or U-turns. However, when the traffic light at an intersection turns red, all movement must stop. The core of safe driving is prioritizing traffic signal rules over road markings—don’t get distracted by the lines. Even if the yellow line permits it, attempting a U-turn at a red light is high-risk—you could easily hit pedestrians or oncoming side traffic, and you might also face fines for violating regulations. My advice is to develop the habit of carefully observing signs and signals at intersections. If unsure, wait until the light turns green before proceeding. This ensures safety for yourself and others, making driving more secure and worry-free.
