Can you make a U-turn in the left-turn lane when there is a dedicated U-turn lane?
2 Answers
In this case, you cannot make a U-turn in the left-turn lane. If there are dedicated markings on the road indicating separate lanes for U-turns and left turns, vehicles should follow these markings accordingly. Mixing them up may result in fines. Here are the relevant details: 1. Regulations: According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, making a U-turn in a left-turn lane without authorization is considered a violation of traffic signals, typically punishable by a 3-point deduction and a fine. If there is a clear no-U-turn signal, it counts as running a red light, which carries a 6-point penalty. 2. Permissible U-turn scenarios: When there is no U-turn signal at an intersection and the vehicle is in the left-turn lane without crossing the stop line, vehicles on the side with a dashed line can make a U-turn without being restricted by the red light, but they must yield to oncoming traffic.
As an experienced driver who has been on the road for many years, I've seen this situation quite often. If there's a dedicated U-turn lane along with a left-turn lane at an intersection, I'd advise against making U-turns in the left-turn lane. The U-turn lane is specifically designed for that purpose—it's safer and ensures smoother traffic flow. The left-turn lane is meant for vehicles turning left, and forcing a U-turn there might block cars behind you, causing congestion or even accidents. However, if there's no 'No U-turn' sign, traffic rules generally permit U-turns in left-turn lanes, provided the signal is green and you ensure there are no approaching vehicles. I remember once trying this on a congested city road and nearly getting rear-ended—since then, I've made it a habit to prioritize finding a U-turn lane. When driving, consider the bigger picture; don't cut corners for minor time savings—safety outweighs everything. Cultivating good habits like checking signs and signals benefits everyone.
