Is it allowed to make a U-turn at an intersection without a U-turn sign?
2 Answers
It is allowed to make a U-turn at an intersection without a U-turn sign. Vehicles can make a U-turn at intersections where left turns are permitted and there are no signs or markings prohibiting U-turns. It is important to note that vehicles must proceed according to the left-turn signal without affecting the normal movement of other vehicles. If making a U-turn at an intersection with a left-turn waiting area, vehicles can first enter the left-turn waiting area when the straight-ahead signal is green and wait until the left-turn signal turns green to complete the U-turn. Scenarios where U-turns are prohibited include: U-turns are prohibited where there are signs prohibiting U-turns or left turns: If there is a sign prohibiting U-turns, then U-turns are not allowed at that intersection. Since a U-turn is an extension of a left turn, intersections with signs prohibiting left turns also prohibit U-turns. U-turns are prohibited at crosswalks: U-turns are not allowed at crosswalks. If making a U-turn at an intersection where it is permitted, the vehicle must cross the crosswalk before turning around and cannot make the U-turn on the crosswalk. U-turns are prohibited when there is no left-turn lane: Even in the leftmost lane, if there is no sign permitting left turns, U-turns are not allowed. U-turns are prohibited from the second left-turn lane: When a vehicle is in the second left-turn lane, it cannot make a U-turn. In the absence of any directional signs, U-turns are only permitted from the innermost left-turn lane.
As a seasoned driver with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter intersections without U-turn signs on the road. In such cases, making a U-turn is permitted as long as there are no markings or signals prohibiting it. The key is to follow basic traffic rules: first, check the traffic light and only proceed when it's green; second, observe oncoming traffic to ensure no vehicles are speeding towards you; third, watch for pedestrians to avoid blocking their path while turning. I remember one close call on a city's main road because I failed to notice a bicycle emerging from a blind spot. The rules themselves aren't complicated, but in reality, experience is needed to judge whether an intersection is safe. Some narrow roads or obstructed corners can be challenging for U-turns even without signs, increasing the risk of scratches. I recommend slowing down in advance, using the correct turn signals, and taking detours when necessary. Maintaining caution can significantly reduce accidents—don't make turns casually just for convenience; prioritize your safety and others'.
