What is the correct way to make a U-turn at a crosswalk?
3 Answers
If there is a crosswalk at the intersection and the lane divider is a solid line, you should make the U-turn after crossing the crosswalk, not on it. If there is a crosswalk at the intersection but the lane divider is a yellow solid-dashed line, you should make the U-turn by crossing the line at this point, not by driving further to cross the crosswalk before turning. Here is additional information: Relevant regulations: 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 not allowed to make U-turns at locations with no U-turn or no left-turn signs or markings, as well as at railway crossings, crosswalks, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, tunnels, or other dangerous sections of the road.
Once while driving in the city, I wanted to make a U-turn when I saw the pedestrian crossing ahead, but an experienced driver reminded me not to perform the maneuver over the zebra crossing. The correct approach is to complete the U-turn before reaching the pedestrian crossing, preferably at least 50 meters away. Before making the U-turn, always check whether the double yellow lines are dashed or solid—only dashed lines allow U-turns. When turning the steering wheel fully, check the rearview mirror to ensure no electric scooters suddenly dart out from behind. During rush hour, pay extra attention to the movements of pedestrians on both sides of the crossing. Once, I almost scraped a food delivery rider who suddenly rushed out, so now I always leave plenty of safety margin when making U-turns.
Making U-turns at pedestrian crossings requires following the rules. I've seen too many drivers turning directly over the zebra crossing, which is extremely dangerous. The correct way is to complete the turn before entering the pedestrian crossing area, and to turn the wheels left in advance when waiting at a green light. If there are double solid yellow lines in the middle of the road, don't take the risk. If there's a no U-turn sign or a red left-turn light at the intersection, wait patiently for the signal. Nowadays, traffic cameras are very strict—last month, my colleague got a ticket for making a U-turn on a zebra crossing. Remember, it's better to drive an extra half kilometer than to risk pedestrian safety and your driver's license points.
