{"id":355913,"date":"2016-04-04T11:04:32","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:04:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/traffic\/traffic-tickets\/illegal-u-turn-state-laws.html"},"modified":"2023-12-11T18:53:36","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T23:53:36","slug":"illegal-u-turn-state-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/traffic\/traffic-tickets\/illegal-u-turn-state-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Illegal U-Turn State Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Illegal U-Turn State Laws<\/h1>\n
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\n By Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Since U-turns can be dangerous, especially in heavy traffic, state traffic laws<\/a> regulate the maneuver. Making an illegal U-turn is a moving violation<\/a> and can result in a traffic ticket<\/a> from a police officer and a fine.<\/p>\r\n

A U-turn is a maneuver in which a motor vehicle makes a 180-degree left turn to reverse its direction. During a U-turn, the vehicle turns in the opposite direction, making a "U" shape. This maneuver often requires the full width of the roadway and can involve cutting across lanes.<\/p>\r\n

U-turn permissions are often regulated by traffic signals and U-turn signs. Look for signs indicating whether U-turns are allowed or prohibited. Some intersections may have dedicated U-turn signals. Never make a U-turn where there is a sign or signal prohibiting it.<\/p>\r\n

Although regulations vary by location, some common restrictions on U-turns include:<\/p>\r\n