Do I need to watch traffic lights when making a U-turn before the stop line on a dashed line?
2 Answers
Making a U-turn before the stop line on a dashed line does not require watching traffic lights. Here is more information: 1. Prerequisites for dashed line U-turns. Vehicles on the dashed line side of an intersection can make a U-turn without affecting oncoming traffic and without regard to traffic signals, but vehicles on the solid line side must never make a U-turn, and the intersection may have cameras for illegal U-turns; also, when there is no dedicated U-turn signal, vehicles should follow the left-turn signal, and if the vehicle does not cross the line, the signal can be ignored. 2. Observe the U-turn lane or signs. If there is a U-turn lane, check the traffic light for the U-turn lane or follow the instructions on the signs. Motor vehicles can make a U-turn at locations without no-left-turn signs, markings, or no-U-turn signs, but they must not obstruct the normal movement of vehicles in other lanes or pedestrians.
I've been driving for almost ten years, so I know this very well. The dashed lines before the stop line usually indicate that you can make a U-turn, but you must always check the traffic lights before turning. If the signal is red, you absolutely cannot make a U-turn directly because cross traffic is still moving, and a collision is very likely. I've seen many accidents caused by ignoring this. The safety rule is simple: first come to a complete stop, confirm that the signal is green or there's a U-turn arrow, then check that there are no vehicles in front or behind before safely executing the turn. Don't rush to make the turn to save time—those few extra seconds can prevent major trouble. Especially at intersections, if the camera catches you, a hefty ticket is inevitable. In daily driving, developing this habit is most important—safety first.
