U-turn with Left Turn Signal or Straight Signal?
2 Answers
Vehicles making a U-turn should use the left turn signal. Relevant details are as follows; Permitted U-turn situations: Presence of a U-turn signal or sign: When there is a signal allowing U-turns at an intersection, you may perform a U-turn. No U-turn sign but left turns are permitted (no prohibition of U-turn signs): Vehicles can make a U-turn at intersections where left turns are allowed and no signs or markings prohibit U-turns. Note that the vehicle must proceed according to the left turn lane signal without interfering with other vehicles. If making a U-turn at an intersection with a left turn waiting area, you may enter the waiting area during a straight green light and wait until the left turn signal turns green to complete the U-turn. U-turns permitted at dashed lines: Whether it's a white or yellow dashed line, U-turns are allowed. For double yellow lines with one solid and one dashed, check if your side has the dashed line—if so, you may U-turn safely; if solid, U-turns are prohibited. At intersections with such markings, U-turns can be made on the dashed side but must not cross the stop line ahead. U-turns permitted in yellow grid areas: Yellow grid zones prohibit parking, but as long as there is no central barrier, you may U-turn after yielding to normally moving traffic. U-turns allowed on the dashed side of a green belt: If the green belt has a dashed line ahead, vehicles on that side can U-turn there. If the green belt has a solid line, the vehicle must obey the traffic signal, cross the pedestrian crossing, and then U-turn—never cross solid lines or pedestrian crossings during the maneuver. U-turn precautions:
I've been driving for many years, and when it comes to making U-turns, I always wait for the left-turn signal to turn green. The left-turn arrow is specifically designed for turning vehicles, including U-turns, as it stops oncoming traffic, allowing you to safely cross to the opposite lane. Even if there seems to be a gap when the straight-through light is green, oncoming vehicles might speed through, posing a huge risk. I've personally seen new drivers attempting U-turns during a straight green light and nearly colliding with other cars—especially at intersections, which are high-risk zones. Legally, most traffic regulations prefer allowing U-turns during left-turn signals. My advice is to make it a habit: check the signal type before turning and look for any 'No U-turn' signs at the intersection. Safety first—don’t take risks just to save time.
