Does a U-turn require observing the left-turn traffic light?

[LukasRose]

If 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. It can be performed directly, provided it does not interfere with other normally moving vehicles and ensures personal safety. If the gap is marked with a solid line, the U-turn must cross the pedestrian crossing and is subject to the traffic signal. When crossing the pedestrian crossing for a U-turn, pedestrians must be given the right of way: Pedestrians walking on the right side of the road's crosswalk without reaching the centerline. Vehicles on the left side of the road should slow down and allow them to pass safely. Pedestrians waiting outside the boundary between motorized and non-motorized lanes. If they have not entered the roadway, vehicles should slow down and allow them to pass safely. If pedestrians cross the boundary between motorized and non-motorized lanes, vehicles must stop; otherwise, it is a violation and subject to penalties. Once pedestrians enter the motorized lane via the crosswalk, vehicles must slow down and allow them to pass safely. Failure to stop is a violation and subject to penalties. Pedestrians waiting at the road's centerline without entering the motorized lane. Vehicles must stop; otherwise, it is a violation and subject to penalties. Pedestrians crossing the centerline into the motorized lane. Vehicles must stop; otherwise, it is a violation and subject to penalties. If the road is divided by a green belt, pedestrians waiting in the middle area must be given the right of way. Vehicles should slow down and allow them to pass safely. Permissible U-turn scenarios: Intersections with U-turn signs: If there is a clear U-turn sign, a U-turn is allowed. If there is a U-turn signal light, follow its instructions. Without a signal light, perform the U-turn cautiously without obstructing other vehicles or pedestrians. Intersections without explicit 'No U-turn' or 'No Left Turn' signs: U-turns are allowed if not explicitly prohibited. 'No explicit prohibition' means no 'No U-turn' or 'No Left Turn' signs and no solid centerline. Yellow grid lines permit U-turns: Yellow grid lines indicate no-stopping zones but allow U-turns unless a central barrier exists. Intersections with U-turn signal lights: Follow the signal—green means U-turn is permitted. If 'No Left Turn' and 'U-turn Allowed' signs coexist: U-turns are permitted, but left turns are not. 'No U-turn' is not the same as 'No Left Turn.' Precautions when making a U-turn: Check road markings—solid lines prohibit U-turns under any circumstances. Continue driving to find a suitable spot. If a 'No Left Turn' sign is present, U-turns are also prohibited, as they involve a left turn. U-turns must be made from the innermost left-turn lane. U-turns from the second left-turn lane are not allowed. Always yield to straight-moving traffic before initiating a U-turn. Failure to do so makes the U-turn driver fully liable for any accidents. Lane arrows near intersections guide vehicle movement. The leftmost lane may not always have a left-turn arrow. If it has a straight arrow, U-turns are prohibited even without explicit signs.

[SanNorah]

When making a U-turn while driving, it's essential to observe the traffic lights, just like when turning left. I remember one time when I was in a hurry and attempted a U-turn at a red light, nearly colliding with oncoming traffic—it gave me quite a scare. Traffic regulations clearly state that U-turns must be performed under a green light, as proceeding during a red light when opposing traffic has the right of way can easily lead to accidents. Unless there's a specific sign permitting U-turns at the intersection, you must still wait for the signal. Now, I've developed a habit: slowing down as I approach an intersection, watching for signal changes, and only proceeding when it's safe. Never take risks—following the rules not only protects you but also reduces the risk of traffic congestion. Small details in daily driving often determine overall safety.

[OEvan]

From a regulatory perspective, performing a U-turn must adhere to the same traffic light rules as a left turn. You cannot proceed when the red light is on, otherwise, it violates traffic laws and may result in a ticket or an accident. Personally, I find this rule reasonable because a U-turn requires more space and turning time, potentially disrupting traffic flow from other directions during a red light. In practice, I always check in advance for any 'No U-turn' signs or warning lights and only proceed with the turn when the light is green, doing so slowly. Developing such good habits makes driving smoother and helps avoid unnecessary delays. Every time I encounter similar situations at intersections, I remind myself: safety first, and rules are the bottom line.

[ThomasMarie]

Of course you need to check traffic lights when making a U-turn, especially as a beginner driver. When I was learning to drive, my instructor emphasized: U-turns are just like left turns - you must wait for the green light. A red light means other directions have priority, and making a sudden U-turn could lead to collisions with oncoming vehicles or pedestrians with unthinkable consequences. Now at every intersection, I do a quick check: no prohibition signs, green light on, and scan left and right before maneuvering to ensure safety. Remembering these rules isn't hard - it's about developing good habits to minimize risks.