Can you make a U-turn when encountering a red light while turning left?
3 Answers
Whether you can make a U-turn when encountering a red light while turning left depends on the specific situation. The details are as follows: 1. Situations where U-turns are not allowed: If the U-turn area is before the stop line and does not require crossing the stop line, it means you don't need to wait for the left-turn green light, or there is a dedicated U-turn lane in the middle of the intersection. 2. Situations where U-turns are allowed: If there is a sign indicating "U-turn permitted when red light is on," you can make a U-turn directly. Penalties related to U-turns: 1. If you run a red light while making a U-turn, you will be fined 200 yuan and receive 6 penalty points for the violation. 2. Making a U-turn by crossing solid lines on the road is a violation, punishable by a 100 yuan fine and 3 penalty points for violating prohibited markings. 3. Making a U-turn on a highway is a serious violation, punishable by a 200 yuan fine and 12 penalty points.
I've been driving for over a decade and seen it all on the road. Wanting to make a U-turn at a red left-turn light? Absolutely not allowed. A red light means you must come to a complete stop – no maneuvers whatsoever. Making a U-turn counts as proceeding through the intersection, just like going straight, and doing so constitutes a traffic violation. Traffic rules clearly state: when the red light is on, stop behind the stop line; no turns or U-turns are permitted unless there's a dedicated U-turn signal or clear signage. I've personally witnessed drivers attempting risky U-turns – not only did they get caught by traffic cameras resulting in fines and penalty points, but they nearly collided with crossing e-bikes too. Safety first! No matter how empty the intersection appears, waiting for the green light is the only correct approach. A reminder to new drivers: develop good habits, read road signs carefully, and never rush. Better to wait an extra minute than cause an accident.
As parents who frequently travel with kids, I have zero tolerance for driving safety violations. Making a U-turn at a red left-turn light? Absolutely not allowed. A red light means stop - attempting a U-turn would disrupt opposing traffic flow and significantly increase collision risks, especially with children in the backseat. Legally, this offense equals running a red light - never attempt without a green arrow or specific signage. My neighbor once got fined ¥200 with 3 penalty points for this violation and nearly caused an accident. Always check road signs carefully: intersections permitting U-turns usually have green arrows or written instructions, otherwise it's prohibited by default. Following traffic rules with children onboard brings peace of mind - never trust misleading online advice.
