Can you turn or make a U-turn on double yellow dashed lines?
3 Answers
Under safe conditions without obstructing traffic, left turns are permitted but U-turns are prohibited on double yellow lines on main roads. Here are the details: 1. Double yellow dashed lines: Left turns are allowed but U-turns are forbidden on main roads under safe conditions without hindering traffic. 2. Double solid yellow lines: U-turns, crossing, or high-speed turns are strictly prohibited. Violators will be fined and receive 3 penalty points. 3. One solid and one dashed yellow line: Vehicles on the dashed side can make U-turns or cross for turns when safe and without obstructing traffic, while vehicles on the solid side must not cross or linger on the double yellow lines.
I remember learning from the driving manual that double yellow dashed lines allow for turns and U-turns when the dashed line is on your side, but only under absolutely safe conditions. You need to ensure there are no oncoming vehicles, visibility is clear, and you slow down. I often see this scenario on suburban roads where traffic is light, making it suitable for selective turns or U-turns. However, it's important to compare it with other road markings—for example, double solid yellow lines are completely prohibited, so don't confuse them. In practice, when turning, signal early, check your mirrors, and confirm no emergency vehicles are approaching, otherwise, it could easily lead to rear-end collisions or crashes. I’ve also seen people ignore these details and force U-turns during peak hours, ending up stuck in the middle of the road causing trouble. In short, following the rules helps avoid tickets and accidents, and developing good habits is crucial.
As a driver who frequently takes long-distance trips, I believe that double yellow dashed lines do allow for turns and U-turns, but my experience tells me that safety should always come first. When driving at high speeds, I make sure to choose the right moment to maneuver and avoid attempting such actions at night or in bad weather, as low visibility can easily lead to misjudgment. I once had a close call when I hastily made a U-turn without clearly seeing the vehicle behind me, nearly causing a rear-end collision. Since then, I've become much more cautious. A related point is that novice drivers tend to act impulsively, so it's important to teach them patience and how to assess traffic density. Remember, even if the rules permit it, always consider road conditions—like slippery surfaces that increase the risk of skidding. It's best to choose a straight, wide section of the road for such maneuvers and avoid taking risks on sharp curves.
