Is a U-turn on a left turn considered running a red light?
3 Answers
Left turn is a red light. The following two types of U-turns are not considered running a red light, otherwise it is running a red light: 1. The road has a U-turn channel: Some places will set up some U-turn channels, so even if the light is red, the car can still turn left to make a U-turn, but the premise is that the owner must pay attention not to affect the driving of other vehicles. 2. The road allows a red light left turn sign: If there is a left turn sign set up on the roadside, you can continue to make a U-turn when the light is red, but you must follow the reminder on the sign. At this time, the driver does not need to look at the traffic light. If you stop driving because of the traffic light, you will be deducted points. In addition, when the vehicle is turning left, it must not be done on the zebra crossing. You must pass the zebra crossing before turning left.
I've been driving for over a decade, and making a U-turn on a left turn doesn't count as running a red light, but it depends on the specific situation. For example, at an intersection, if there's a dedicated green arrow for left turns, making a U-turn is completely fine and very safe; but if there's no such signal, turning sharply or making a U-turn as soon as the red light stops is absolutely considered running a red light. I remember one time during morning rush hour, I stopped at a red light, and the car in front of me tried to make a quick U-turn to save time. It got caught by the camera, the traffic police issued a ticket, and there was almost a sideswipe accident. The lesson is, paying attention to the signals saves the most hassle: at a regular red light, just wait patiently for the green light, or find an area with a U-turn sign. Developing this habit over years of driving can avoid a lot of trouble and save you from fines, after all, the rules are designed for safety.
I'm a cautious person by nature and pay extra attention to rules when driving. Making a U-turn on a left turn doesn't count as running a red light, but the prerequisite is strictly obeying traffic signals. You must stop when the red light is on, unless there's a green left-turn arrow permitting turns or U-turns. Once, I was waiting at an urban intersection when a friend who forced a U-turn without dedicated signals got a ticket and nearly caused a rear-end collision. That's why I make it a habit to check road signs: if there's a 'No U-turn' sign, don't attempt it, and always prioritize arrow indicators at traffic lights. Safety first is never wrong – waiting those extra seconds is far better than dealing with car repairs or penalty points afterward. This approach has also helped me drive more steadily in complex road conditions, reducing accident risks. My family often says I'm a reliable driver.
