Can You Make a U-Turn on a Tidal Lane?

[ReeseLynn]

U-turns are not allowed on tidal lanes unless there is a sign permitting them. Tidal lanes are variable lanes, and the tidal markings on both sides of the road serve the same function as double yellow lines. When using the vehicle, drivers must not cross the tidal markings to overtake the vehicle in front or make a U-turn. Otherwise, according to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," violators will be penalized with a 3-point deduction. Moreover, when driving on a tidal lane, drivers need to pay attention to the direction indicated by the traffic signals. Generally, tidal lanes have time restrictions and are mostly open during peak hours in the morning or evening, or when there are more vehicles in the left-turn lane and fewer in the straight lane. Drivers are not allowed to use the tidal lane outside these designated times. Cases where U-turns are allowed: Intersections with U-turn signs: If there is a clear U-turn sign at the intersection, a U-turn can be made. If there is a U-turn signal light, drivers must follow its instructions. If there is no signal light, a U-turn can be made based on the specific situation, provided it does not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Intersections without explicit no-U-turn or no-left-turn signs: If there is no explicit prohibition of U-turns at the intersection, a U-turn can be made. "No explicit prohibition" means the absence of signs like "No U-Turn," "No Left Turn," or solid center lines. In such cases, drivers can confidently make a U-turn. Yellow grid lines also allow U-turns: Yellow grid lines are no-parking zones marked at intersections prone to congestion due to temporary stops, important institution entrances, or other necessary locations. Any vehicle stopping on these lines (including waiting at traffic lights) is violating traffic rules. Although parking is prohibited in yellow grid zones, U-turns are allowed there. As long as there is no central barrier, yellow grid lines are equivalent to "U-turn permitted." Intersections with U-turn signal lights: This is straightforward—if there is a U-turn signal light, drivers must wait for the green light to make a U-turn. When no-left-turn and U-turn-permitted signs appear together: U-turns are allowed, but left turns are prohibited. However, "No U-Turn" is not the same as "No Left Turn." Things to note when making a U-turn at an intersection: Observe the road markings. If they are solid lines, U-turns are prohibited under any circumstances. Drivers should continue forward to find a suitable location for a U-turn. If there is a "No Left Turn" sign ahead, even if there is no mention of prohibiting U-turns, making a U-turn at that intersection is not allowed because U-turns and left turns are similar maneuvers—a U-turn always involves a left turn first. U-turns must be made from the innermost left-turn lane. If the vehicle is in the second left-turn lane, a U-turn cannot be made at that intersection. When making a U-turn, drivers must yield to vehicles going straight and only proceed if it does not interfere with their normal flow. Otherwise, the driver making the U-turn will bear full responsibility for any accident. Near the intersection stop line, lanes usually have guiding arrows for drivers to choose their direction. The leftmost lane does not always have a left-turn arrow. On some roads, if there is a straight arrow, even without explicit no-U-turn signs, U-turns are not permitted. U-turns must not be made on pedestrian crosswalks, as this is also a traffic violation.