Will points be deducted for making a U-turn while turning left?

[ArcherLynn]

It is considered a traffic violation as it involves not driving in the designated lane, and will result in a 2-point deduction. Therefore, drivers should pay attention to following the traffic guidance on the road when driving. Turning left according to guidance: When there are clear signs guiding the way, drivers can proceed through the intersection as directed, while also being mindful of yielding to other vehicles to ensure safe passage. Precautions for turning left: However, drivers should note that if there is no gap in the central divider and a U-turn requires crossing the stop line, they must wait for the left-turn red light to turn green before making the U-turn. Otherwise, it will be considered as running a red light, which is a traffic violation.

[Gilbert]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, let me tell you the key is to observe road markings and signs. If there's a clear no U-turn sign at the intersection or double solid lines painted on the ground, making a forced U-turn will definitely cost you points. I've seen many novice drivers making U-turns directly from left-turn lanes without noticing, only to be caught by traffic cameras - resulting in 3-point deductions and 200 yuan fines. Especially when making U-turns near school entrances or crosswalks, pay extra attention to the red-and-white warning signs on the roadside. Actually, at intersections where left turns are permitted, U-turns are allowed as long as there's no explicit no U-turn signage. But remember to wait until all oncoming traffic has completely passed before executing the maneuver, otherwise you'll bear full responsibility if you scrape another vehicle.

[VanLilah]

When I was studying for my driver's license, I specifically researched traffic regulations. Whether a U-turn results in penalty points mainly depends on these three factors: First, the right-of-way division. For example, if you suddenly make a left turn for a U-turn from a straight lane, this is a typical case of not driving in the designated lane. Second, traffic signals. Making a U-turn when the left-turn signal is red is equivalent to running a red light. Lastly, special road sections. Areas like tunnel entrances and railway crossings generally prohibit U-turns. Last year, my colleague made a U-turn under an overpass, only to find the 'No U-turn' sign lit above, and the fine arrived at his home the next day. My advice is to reduce speed before making a U-turn, carefully check the rearview and side mirrors, and ensure a safe image for the cameras.

[DelCora]

Actually, traffic regulations have clear definitions for U-turns: they are allowed when the centerline of the road is a yellow dashed line, but absolutely prohibited with double solid yellow lines. I often remind Uncle Wang next door that his SUV has large blind spots, so he needs to pay attention to three things when making a left U-turn: don't drive over pedestrian waiting areas; don't make a U-turn within 30 meters of a bus stop; and don't force it if the turning radius isn't sufficient. If the wheels scrape against the curb and are seen by traffic police, it counts as obstructing traffic safety and points will be deducted. The best approach is to observe how the vehicle ahead operates or follow the navigation voice prompts.

[VonHannah]

Driving in the city is most dreaded for getting caught by traffic cameras, and the risk of illegal U-turns is second only to running red lights. According to last year's updated traffic regulations, making a U-turn at a prohibited sign incurs a 1-point deduction, but if it causes traffic congestion or an accident, the penalty increases to 3 points. Last month, I witnessed a ride-hailing vehicle attempting a U-turn while rushing through a yellow light during a left turn, with its rear wheels still on the solid line, resulting in the intersection camera flashing twice. Such point deductions are entirely avoidable—change lanes to the far-left lane 200 meters in advance, activate the turn signal for three seconds before turning the steering wheel, and most crucially, confirm whether there are diamond or triangular no-U-turn signs at the intersection.

[Curtis]

As a car enthusiast, I must remind you that vehicle type also affects the legality of U-turns. For example, trailers and large trucks making U-turns at regular intersections is a violation, something many people aren't aware of. For regular family cars making U-turns, pay attention to: don't cross the white line of the bicycle lane; don't take risks when there are only five seconds left on the green light; at intersections, go around the center point to make a wide turn. Last week, Ms. Li in our neighborhood got a warning ticket from a patrolling traffic officer because her long-wheelbase sedan's turning angle was too small, causing the wheels to hit the curb. It's advisable to use the 360-degree camera or lower the car window before driving to ensure you can clearly see the solid and dashed lines on the road before maneuvering.