What are the rules for making a U-turn with a car?
3 Answers
There are many rules regarding making a U-turn with a car. Here is a detailed introduction: 1. Situations where U-turns are allowed: The main situations where U-turns are allowed include the following: yellow grid areas; intersections with U-turn signals; intersections without U-turn signals but with left-turn signals; intersections without 'No U-turn' signs are considered to allow U-turns. 2. Situations where U-turns are not allowed: The main situations where U-turns are not allowed include the following: intersections where left turns are prohibited; crosswalk areas; intersections with two left-turn lanes where the middle lane is not allowed to make a U-turn; intersections with 'No U-turn' signs; the leftmost lane with only a straight arrow; solid single yellow lines where U-turns are prohibited; sections of the road where U-turns are not allowed.
I've been driving for over ten years, and making U-turns requires special attention. You must choose locations with U-turn signs, such as intersections with dedicated signage or traffic signals permitting it. Never attempt a U-turn in prohibited zones like tunnels, railroad crossings, or near schools—it's absolutely forbidden. Using your turn signal is mandatory—activate it 10 seconds in advance to alert others. Check surrounding traffic by monitoring mirrors and blind spots, ensuring no vehicles are approaching before proceeding. Once, I made a U-turn in the countryside at night and nearly had an accident due to poor visibility from inadequate lighting. Now, I prioritize daytime or well-lit areas for this maneuver. Safety comes first—don't rush to save time. If an intersection is congested, find a spacious area or wait for a dedicated lane. Remember, rules exist for everyone's benefit. Violations may lead to penalty points, fines, or even endanger lives—so I always take it slow.
As a novice driver, my instructor repeatedly emphasized the basics when teaching me how to make a U-turn. First, check the intersection signals—if there's a U-turn permitted light, wait for the green light before proceeding. Always stop before crosswalks to observe and ensure pedestrians can pass safely. Using the turn signal is crucial to let vehicles behind know your intention. Avoid making U-turns on narrow streets, as it's easy to scrape or block traffic. Check blind spots thoroughly, scanning both sides to confirm there are no bicycles or motorcycles rushing out. In bad weather like rain or fog, slow down and be extra cautious. When driving in the city, I prefer using spacious square areas for U-turns to minimize the risk of mistakes. The rules are simple but practical—following them saves hassle and money. With a few more practices, it'll become second nature. The key is to develop safety awareness and avoid rushing.