How much of the vehicle body needs to be out to make a U-turn?
2 Answers
When making a U-turn, the vehicle body does not need to cross the pedestrian crossing to complete the maneuver. However, the driver must not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians who are proceeding normally. According to Article 49 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Motor vehicles are not allowed to make U-turns at locations with no U-turn or no left-turn signs or markings, as well as at railway crossings, pedestrian crosswalks, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, tunnels, or other sections of road where hazards are likely to occur. Additional reference: Article 46 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": When a motor vehicle encounters any of the following situations, the maximum speed shall not exceed 30 kilometers per hour, and for tractors, battery-powered vehicles, and wheeled special-purpose motor vehicles, the speed shall not exceed 15 kilometers per hour: 1. When entering or exiting a non-motorized vehicle lane, passing through a railway crossing, sharp curve, narrow road, or narrow bridge; 2. When making a U-turn, turning, or descending a steep slope; 3. In fog, rain, snow, dust storms, or hail, when visibility is within 50 meters; 4. When driving on icy or muddy roads; 5. When towing a motor vehicle that has broken down.
When making a U-turn, how much of the car body needs to come out to complete it smoothly? I've been driving for over ten years and often encounter narrow-road U-turns. Generally speaking, once the front of the car turns toward the target direction and more than half of the car body has cleared, it can usually be completed. At this point, the rear wheels are also roughly aligned and won't scrape the curb. The key is to observe the surroundings: if there's enough space in a two-lane road or intersection, it's safer to start turning when about one-third of the car has moved into position. Practice more in parking lots—find an empty spot to simulate the scenario. Try turning when half of the car's side is just past the obstacle, and you'll handle it with ease. Safety first—don't rush blindly, especially on slippery roads during rain or snow. Accelerate only after the car has fully cleared its original position for a steadier maneuver.
