Is a U-turn allowed when the left-turn arrow is red?
4 Answers
A U-turn is not allowed when the left-turn arrow is red. More information about U-turns for motor vehicles is as follows: 1. At an intersection without a 'No U-turn (No Left Turn)' sign or marking, a U-turn is legally permitted regardless of whether the traffic light is red or green. However, if there is a clear sign indicating 'When the left-turn light is green' or 'When the red light is on,' the U-turn must be made according to the specified signal timing. 2. Motor vehicles can make a U-turn at locations without 'No U-turn' or 'No Left Turn' signs or markings. At locations where U-turns are allowed and there is no dedicated U-turn signal or other traffic signs regulating U-turns, vehicles can make a U-turn during any traffic light phase. 3. If a traffic sign explicitly indicates that U-turns are allowed during a red or green light, the U-turn should be made during the specified signal phase. 4. When making a U-turn, do not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians who are proceeding normally. Therefore, at intersections without 'No U-turn (No Left Turn)' signs or markings, motor vehicles can make a U-turn directly if it is safe to do so.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I firmly believe making a U-turn on a left-turn red arrow is absolutely unacceptable. The red arrow specifically applies to left turns, which means all turning movements including U-turns are prohibited. I once witnessed a fellow driver attempting such a risky maneuver under similar circumstances and nearly colliding with oncoming traffic – it was truly frightening. For safety, always wait for the green light before making a U-turn, or check for signage permitting it; if in doubt, don't do it. While regulations may vary slightly between cities, the fundamental principle remains: avoid any turning maneuvers during a red arrow phase as it significantly increases collision risks and endangers pedestrians. Ultimately, obeying traffic signals is the key to road safety.
I often drive long distances, and once in the city, I had the idea of making a U-turn when encountering a left-turn arrow red light. But based on my experience, this is completely unreliable. The red arrow signal is designed to prohibit turns and U-turns, and once you act, the system is set up to hinder you. Imagine if a car from the opposite lane suddenly comes straight at you—that would be terrible. I've driven in multiple regions, and the rules are generally consistent: unless there's a clear sign allowing it at the intersection, don't take the risk. Simply put, this is even more dangerous than running a red light. The fine is minor, but causing an accident would be serious. As a driver who habitually follows the rules, I advise fellow drivers to develop the habit of waiting patiently.
When I first got my driver's license, I was also confused about whether U-turns were allowed at a left-turn arrow red light, but later consulting the driving school clarified that it's usually not permitted. As a novice driver, this rule might sound a bit complicated, but the logic is actually quite simple: the arrow red light specifically targets left turns and U-turns, acting like a warning signal saying 'don't turn.' A U-turn is a form of turning, so you must stop and wait for the green light when the arrow is red. I remember the manual emphasizing safety first—don't rush and cause an accident. As a beginner, learning this made me feel more confident while driving. Signs may vary by location, affecting judgment, but in most cases, following the rules is the safest approach.
