Is it allowed to reverse when unable to complete a U-turn at a traffic light intersection?
2 Answers
When failing to complete a U-turn at a traffic light intersection, it is permissible to reverse and adjust the vehicle's position, provided that this action does not impede the movement of other vehicles and does not constitute a traffic violation. 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 prohibited from making U-turns at locations with signs or markings indicating no U-turns or no left turns, as well as at railway crossings, pedestrian crossings, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, tunnels, or any sections of road prone to danger. Motor vehicles may make U-turns at locations without such prohibitions, provided that they do not obstruct the normal passage of other vehicles and pedestrians. Additional guidelines: When making a U-turn, first select an appropriate location, signal a left turn, and slowly steer the vehicle to one side of the road, turning the steering wheel to the left. As the front wheels approach the roadside or the front of the vehicle nears an obstacle, depress the clutch and gently apply the brake. Before the vehicle comes to a complete stop, quickly turn the steering wheel fully to the right to align the front wheels in the new direction needed for reversing, then stop the vehicle immediately. When reversing, first observe the situation behind the vehicle, then start slowly while turning the steering wheel fully to the right. As the rear wheels approach the roadside or the rear of the vehicle nears an obstacle, immediately depress the clutch pedal, gently apply the brake to stop, and use this moment before stopping to quickly turn the steering wheel back to the left.
Last time I got stuck making a U-turn at a narrow intersection in the city, with the rear wheels just half a palm's width from the curb. In such situations, never force it. After checking the mirrors to confirm safety, reversing half a meter can save the day. But pay attention to three things: when the reverse lights come on, following cars might not react immediately, so it's best to turn on the hazard lights first; keep the steering wheel fully turned to the left without straightening it; never reverse on a green light and block the straight-moving traffic. Once I saw a novice reversing at a crosswalk and almost got hit by an electric scooter making a right turn—way too close for comfort.
