Do I Need to Wait for a Red Light When Making a U-Turn?
3 Answers
If there is a U-turn signal light and it is red, you must wait to make a U-turn. Otherwise, it will be considered running a red light, which, according to the Road Traffic Safety Law, results in a penalty of 6 demerit points and a fine of 200 yuan. If there is no U-turn signal light, and the gap is marked with a dashed line, the U-turn is not affected by the traffic signal and does not require crossing the pedestrian crossing. However, if the gap is marked with a solid line, the U-turn must cross the pedestrian crossing and is subject to the left-turn signal light. Making a U-turn directly without adhering to these rules may result in being photographed or penalized by on-site traffic police. When making a U-turn that requires crossing the pedestrian crossing, pedestrians must be given the right of way: If pedestrians are walking on the right side of the crosswalk and have not reached the centerline of the road, vehicles on the left side of the road must slow down and allow them to pass safely. If pedestrians are waiting outside the boundary line between the motorized and non-motorized lanes and have not entered the roadway, vehicles should slow down and allow them to pass safely. If pedestrians cross the boundary line between the motorized and non-motorized lanes, vehicles that do not stop and yield are committing a violation and should be penalized. If pedestrians enter the motorized lane from the crosswalk, vehicles must slow down and allow them to pass safely. Vehicles that do not stop and yield are committing a violation and should be penalized. If pedestrians are waiting at the centerline of the road without entering the motorized lane, vehicles that do not stop and yield are committing a violation and should be penalized. If pedestrians cross the centerline of the road and enter the lane, vehicles that do not stop and yield are committing a violation and should be penalized. If the road is divided by a green belt and pedestrians are waiting in the middle of the road, vehicles must slow down and allow them to pass safely. Scenarios where U-turns are allowed: If there is a U-turn sign at the intersection, a U-turn can be made. If there is a U-turn signal light, follow its instructions. If there is no signal light, make the U-turn without obstructing other vehicles or pedestrians. If there are no explicit signs prohibiting U-turns or left turns at the intersection, a U-turn can be made. "No explicit prohibition" means there are no "No U-turn" or "No Left Turn" signs, and the centerline is not solid. U-turns are also allowed in yellow grid zones. Yellow grid lines indicate no-stopping zones, but U-turns are permitted unless there is a central barrier. If there is a U-turn signal light at the intersection, follow its instructions—only make a U-turn when the light is green. If "No Left Turn" and "U-turn Allowed" signs appear together, U-turns are permitted, but left turns are not. Note that "No U-turn" does not mean "No Left Turn." Precautions when making a U-turn at an intersection: Check the road markings. If they are solid lines, U-turns are prohibited under any circumstances. Continue driving to find a suitable location. If there is a "No Left Turn" sign, U-turns are also prohibited at that intersection, as U-turns require a left turn first. U-turns must be made from the innermost left-turn lane. U-turns cannot be made from the second left-turn lane. Always yield to oncoming traffic when making a U-turn. Failure to do so may result in full liability for any accidents. Near the intersection stop line, lanes often have guiding arrows. The leftmost lane may not always have a left-turn arrow. If it has a straight arrow, U-turns are prohibited even if there are no explicit "No U-turn" signs.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I'd say whether you need to wait for a red light when making a left turn or U-turn depends on the specific situation. Generally, when the red light is on, we must stop and wait for the green light; otherwise, it's a violation that could result in penalty points and fines. Especially at urban intersections, if pedestrians or vehicles are rushing through, making an aggressive left turn can easily lead to accidents. I remember once at a crossroads, I turned without waiting for the green light and almost hit a cyclist—a lesson learned the hard way. Traffic lights are designed for safety and order; most circular red lights prohibit any turning movements unless there's a specific green left-turn arrow. When driving, it's important to get into the habit of checking signal types and lane markings, and not to take chances for the sake of speed. Waiting at a red light is a good time to take a break or observe traffic conditions to plan your route, which can significantly reduce risks. Developing such cautious habits is crucial for long-term driving, as safety is far more important than saving time.
When encountering a left turn or U-turn situation while driving, I usually check the traffic signal type first. If there's only a regular circular red light, you must wait for the green light, otherwise you might get caught by traffic cameras. Some intersections have dedicated left-turn arrow signals - when the green arrow is lit, you can proceed with the turn or U-turn without waiting for red. Additionally, during rush hours when traffic police are directing, always follow their hand signals. On my commute, I often encounter quiet intersections without signals where U-turns are safe, but need extra caution in heavy traffic. I recommend beginners familiarize themselves with local road rules, plan routes before driving to avoid last-minute decisions. These practical tips from daily experience are simple, efficient and safe.
