Which Signal Light is for U-Turn?

[VanJackson]

The U-turn signal light is shaped like a circular arrow and is not installed at every intersection. Below is relevant information about U-turns: Solid lines prohibit U-turns: Whether it's a single yellow line or double yellow lines, as long as it's solid, crossing is strictly prohibited. This includes actions like overtaking, turning, or making U-turns. Under normal driving conditions, you should not cross these lines. Considerations for U-turns on dashed lines: When it's safe to do so, you may overtake or make a U-turn on dashed lines, whether they are single or double yellow lines. Single yellow lines are typically used on roads with up to four lanes (including bicycle lanes), while double yellow lines are generally used on wider roads.

[EzraLee]

The U-turn signal is usually the highest-mounted arrow light, typically installed above the road median or barrier, featuring a curved tail. I've seen some drivers confuse it with the left-turn signal, resulting in illegal U-turns at no-U-turn intersections, leading to fines and penalty points—what a loss. Actually, when the U-turn arrow is lit, oncoming traffic is stopped by a red light, making it the safest time to make a U-turn. However, some intersections are oddly designed, only showing a left-turn signal with a tail, and the road markings are unclear. In such cases, I recommend not rushing—check for any no-U-turn signs first. If still unsure, wait for the left-turn green light, cross the pedestrian crossing, and then make the U-turn for extra safety.

[Zara]

After driving for so many years, I've concluded there are three most typical scenarios for U-turn signals: either a dedicated light with a curved arrow, a left-turn green light with an additional line saying 'U-turn permitted,' or in rare cases, a regular green light paired with a ground arrow. The key is to check for any prohibition signs at the intersection—I learned this the hard way downtown when I saw an arrow and made a U-turn, only to realize the light was actually for left-turning vehicles, and U-turns required crossing the crosswalk first. Beginners should remember: never turn the wheel when facing a red light or a U-turn sign with a slash, or the camera will surely catch you. Also, remember to confirm with hand signals when there's a traffic officer at the intersection—they have more authority than traffic lights.

[Cindy]

During the driving test, the instructor repeatedly emphasized two key points for identifying U-turn signals. First, the signal itself: a dedicated hook-shaped arrow where red means stop and green means go. Second, traffic rules: when there's no dedicated U-turn signal but the left-turn signal is on, you can make a U-turn as long as there's no red prohibition sign (such as a sign with a U-turn arrow and a slash), provided it's safe. Pay special attention to only making U-turns where double yellow lines turn into dashed lines. At night, be extra cautious as some signal lights may not be bright enough. Last year, a student from our driving school was penalized for dangerous driving after making a U-turn in a solid line area due to not seeing the signal clearly.