Will I get points deducted for making a U-turn at a traffic light intersection?
2 Answers
At a traffic light intersection without a no U-turn sign or a left turn on red sign, you can make a U-turn in the leftmost lane. Driving against traffic will result in a three-point penalty if caught. 1. There is a U-turn indication sign where the center dashed line connects with the solid line. 2. It must not hinder the normal passage of other vehicles and pedestrians. 3. If there is a U-turn traffic light: you must wait until it turns green. 4. If there is no U-turn traffic light: you must wait until the left turn signal is green. 5. If there is no left turn signal: at an intersection with only a circular traffic light, you must wait until the green light is on. Note: At intersections where you can make a U-turn without looking at the traffic light, U-turn vehicles should leave quickly, but they do not have the right of way and must not hinder the normal passage of other vehicles and pedestrians. In case of an accident, the U-turn vehicle will be held responsible.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and making U-turns at traffic light intersections depends on signals and signs. When the light is green, if there isn't a circular red crossed-out no-U-turn sign, making a U-turn is usually fine; under no circumstances should you make a U-turn at a red light, or it counts as running a red light—6 points deducted and a 200-yuan fine. At busy intersections, you need to be careful of oncoming traffic from both sides when making a U-turn—I've seen many accidents caused by reckless U-turns. Once in the city, I made a U-turn where the signs were unclear and got away with it, but a friend got caught and fined for making a U-turn at a no-U-turn spot. Safety first—observe the signals clearly before acting, don't rush. Rural intersections might be less strict, but the rules are just as serious. I recommend checking your route with a navigation app before driving to avoid restricted areas. In short, keep the rules in mind—getting home safely is what matters most.
