Should the Left Turn Signal Always Be Used When Making a U-Turn?
1 Answers
Yes, the left turn signal should be activated. According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," failure to use the turn signal during a U-turn will result in a penalty of 1 point and a fine of 100 RMB. Other violations that incur a 1-point penalty include: not using lights as required; not yielding properly during encounters; exceeding specified dimensions for vehicle cargo length, width, or height; and driving a motor vehicle without displaying the inspection compliance mark, insurance mark, or carrying the vehicle registration certificate or driver's license. Article 57 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China stipulates the following rules for using turn signals: When turning left, changing lanes to the left, preparing to overtake, leaving a parking spot, or making a U-turn, the left turn signal must be activated in advance. When turning right, changing lanes to the right, returning to the original lane after overtaking, or parking by the roadside, the right turn signal must be activated in advance. Turn signals: Must be turned on when the vehicle is changing direction, flashing intermittently to alert surrounding vehicles and pedestrians. The timing of activating the turn signal is crucial—it should be turned on approximately 30 to 100 meters before reaching the turning point. Permissible U-turn scenarios: Intersections with U-turn signs: If there is a clear U-turn sign at an intersection, a U-turn is allowed. If there is a U-turn traffic light, follow its instructions. In the absence of a traffic light, proceed with the U-turn only if it does not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Intersections without explicit "No U-Turn" or "No Left Turn" signs: U-turns are permitted unless explicitly prohibited. "No explicit prohibition" means the absence of "No U-Turn" or "No Left Turn" signs, and the absence of solid center lines. Yellow grid lines also permit U-turns: Yellow grid lines are no-parking zones marked at intersections prone to congestion due to temporary stops, important facility entrances, and other designated areas. Stopping on these lines (including waiting for traffic lights) is a violation. Although parking is prohibited in yellow grid zones, U-turns are allowed unless there is a central divider. Intersections with U-turn traffic lights: If a U-turn traffic light is present, follow its signal—only proceed on green. When "No Left Turn" and "U-Turn Permitted" signs coexist: U-turns are allowed, but left turns are prohibited. Note that "No U-Turn" does not equate to "No Left Turn." Precautions when making a U-turn: Observe road markings—if solid lines are present, U-turns are prohibited under any circumstances. Continue driving to find a suitable U-turn location. If a "No Left Turn" sign is posted, U-turns are also prohibited at that intersection, even if "No U-Turn" is not explicitly stated, as U-turns inherently involve a left turn. U-turns must be made from the innermost left-turn lane. If in the second left-turn lane, U-turns are not permitted at that intersection. Always yield to oncoming traffic before making a U-turn. Failure to do so will result in full liability for any accidents. Near intersection stop lines, lanes often have guiding arrows. The leftmost lane is not always for left turns—if marked with a straight arrow, U-turns are prohibited even without explicit "No U-Turn" signs.
