Can you make a U-turn when one side is a dashed line and the other is a solid line?
3 Answers
You can make a U-turn when one side is a solid line and the other is a dashed line, but only at the dashed line side; U-turns are not allowed at the solid line side. Below are the relevant details: U-turns prohibited at solid lines: Whether it's a single yellow line or a double yellow line, as long as it's a solid line, crossing it is strictly prohibited, including actions like overtaking, turning, or making a U-turn. Under normal driving conditions, you should not cross the line. U-turns allowed at dashed lines: Whether it's a single yellow line or a double yellow line, as long as it's a dashed line, you can overtake or make a U-turn when it's safe to do so. Introduction to single and double yellow lines: Single yellow lines are generally used on roads with up to four lanes (including bicycle lanes), while double yellow lines are used on wider roads. If there is a double yellow line with one solid and one dashed line, vehicles on the side with the dashed line can temporarily cross it for actions like overtaking or turning.
This is a common issue. Having driven for over a decade, I've seen many drivers make this mistake. Generally, when there's a dashed line on one side and a solid line on the other, it means vehicles on the dashed-line side are allowed to make a U-turn across to the solid-line side, but never the reverse. For example, if you're driving on the dashed-line side, you can safely make a U-turn. However, if you're on the solid-line side, you must continue straight – otherwise, you risk a fine. In traffic rules, solid lines are no-go zones, while dashed lines signal permissible crossing. Also, consider the actual conditions – if traffic is heavy or visibility is poor, avoid forcing a U-turn and find a safer spot to turn around instead. A friend of mine ignored this rule downtown and got penalized with 2 demerit points plus a 300-yuan fine. Regularly observing road markings and signs while driving significantly improves safety. New drivers especially should pay attention to these details.
Hey, this kind of road marking is quite common, and I often encounter it while driving in the city. Simply put, if you're on the side with the dashed line, making a U-turn is completely fine; absolutely don't try it on the solid line side, or the cameras will catch you for a violation. Last time, my friend got confused at a highway exit and was fined over 200 yuan just after turning. Rules may vary slightly by location—for example, some places allow emergency U-turns, but you need to check the signs. Safety-wise, remember to signal and check for traffic behind you before turning around. If there's heavy traffic, it's better to take a longer route rather than risk it. In short, don't be in too much of a hurry when driving; following the rules saves both peace of mind and money.
