Is it allowed to make a U-turn on a single yellow line with dashed lines?
3 Answers
U-turns are allowed on yellow dashed lines, provided there are no signs prohibiting U-turns or left turns, or separate U-turn signal lights. Vehicles can make a U-turn without violating traffic rules or receiving penalties as long as it does not interfere with normal traffic flow and safety is ensured. Scenarios where U-turns are allowed: Intersections with U-turn signs: If there is a clear U-turn sign at an intersection, a U-turn is permitted. If there is a U-turn signal light, follow its instructions. In the absence of a signal light, make a U-turn based on the specific situation, ensuring it does not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Intersections without explicit prohibitions: If there are no signs explicitly prohibiting U-turns or left turns, a U-turn is allowed. "No explicit prohibition" means the intersection lacks signs like "No U-turn," "No Left Turn," or solid center lines, in which case a U-turn can be safely made. Yellow grid lines also permit U-turns: Yellow grid lines are no-parking zones typically marked at intersections prone to congestion due to temporary stops, important facility entrances, or other designated areas. Parking (including waiting at traffic lights) on these lines is a violation. However, while stopping is prohibited in yellow grid zones, U-turns are allowed unless there is a central barrier. Yellow grid lines without barriers are equivalent to "U-turn permitted." Intersections with U-turn signal lights: This is straightforward—if a U-turn signal light is present, follow it. A green light means a U-turn is allowed. When "No Left Turn" and "U-turn Permitted" signs coexist: U-turns are allowed, but left turns are prohibited. Note that "No U-turn" is not the same as "No Left Turn." Points to note when making a U-turn: Observe road markings. If the line is solid, U-turns are prohibited under any circumstances. Continue driving to find a suitable spot. If there is a "No Left Turn" sign, even if "No U-turn" is not mentioned, U-turns are not allowed at that intersection since U-turns inherently involve a left turn. U-turns must be made from the innermost left-turn lane. If you are in the second left-turn lane, a U-turn is not permitted at that intersection. Always yield to oncoming traffic before making a U-turn to avoid disrupting normal traffic flow. Otherwise, you will bear full responsibility for any accidents. Near intersection stop lines, lanes often have guiding arrows. The leftmost lane may not always have a left-turn arrow. If it has a straight arrow, U-turns are prohibited even without explicit "No U-turn" signs. U-turns on crosswalks are prohibited and constitute a traffic violation.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked this question. If there's a single yellow line with dashed markings, U-turns are generally permitted because the dashed line indicates lane crossing is allowed, which is common in traffic regulations. However, the key is to consider specific conditions, such as whether there's an intersection, traffic lights, or no-U-turn signs. I've personally witnessed accidents where drivers made abrupt U-turns on single yellow dashed lines and got rear-ended. So always check rear traffic before turning, slow down, and confirm safety via mirrors. Also, some urban roads may restrict U-turns even with dashed lines—it's best to check local traffic rules or use navigation app alerts beforehand. Remember: safety first, don't take risks just to save time.
I'm quite familiar with traffic rules. Simply put, dashed yellow lines allow you to cross for maneuvers including U-turns - that's a basic regulation in China's traffic code. You must ensure you're not doing it on curves, slopes, or congested areas to avoid conflicts. I recommend checking for special signs like 'No U-turn' plates; if present, abandon the idea immediately. Beginners often confuse solid and dashed lines - never cross solid lines, while dashed lines offer flexibility but require responsibility. Practical experience shows U-turns are safer on roads with light traffic, otherwise you risk fines or penalty points. Regularly studying traffic regulations and using traffic apps for updates can prevent many troubles.
