Illegal U-Turn State Laws

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

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.

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.

Although regulations vary by location, some common restrictions on U-turns include:

• No U-turns in particular zones, such as school zones, railroad crossings, or areas with heavy pedestrian traffic
• Business districts only allow U-turns at intersections or areas that are clearly marked
• Motorists must be able to see all approaching cars and oncoming traffic, plus be free of all obstructions, before making a U-turn
• Crosswalks must be free of pedestrians when making a U-turn
• No U-turns on one-way streets
• U-Turns restricted on highways or divided roadways
• U-turns prohibited in front of fire stations

U-Turns and State and Local Laws

Traffic laws are determined at the state and local level, with U-turns usually covered in statutes that cover the following traffic regulations:

• Restricted turns
• Turning around
• Turning on hills or crests
• Required turn signals
• Turning in intersections

Even if your local statute does not specifically reference the U-turn, these maneuvers are generally included under broader traffic regulations. This means you can still be ticketed for an illegal U-turn even if it's not explicitly mentioned in the local traffic code.

Penalties for Illegal U-Turns

Penalties for an illegal U-turn ticket vary based on jurisdiction.

Most often, a citation for an illegal U-turn will cost you a fine. The fine amount depends on local laws and whether it's a first-time traffic offense or a repeat violation. These types of citations can also add points to your driver's license in states that use point systems. Accumulating too many points can lead to further consequences, including license suspension.

Depending on your insurance company, you could also see an increase in your car insurance premiums.

Ticketed for an Illegal U-Turn? Get Legal Advice

Citations for illegal U-turns are straightforward and typically don't require help from an attorney. But if you're facing an increase in your auto insurance rates or too many points on your driving record, working with a traffic law attorney in your area may be in your best interest.

A traffic ticket attorney knowledgeable about local traffic laws can review your options and even help you contest the ticket. This could save you a costly fine and insurance costs. In some cases, it could even prevent a driver's license suspension.