U-Turns on California Roads: When Are They Allowed?
The California Vehicle Code section 22100 gives all the rules and regulations for making legal turns and u-turns in the State of California.
U-turns are only allowed in residential districts, and in business districts where openings have been left for you to safely turn around. You may also make u-turns at traffic lights if all oncoming traffic is stopped, and you have a green arrow allowing you to safely make the turn.
If you are driving in a business district, you will see clearly marked intersections where u-turns are legal. Many times, you may need to get to a business on the opposite side of the street that is inaccessible from your current driving lane. When this happens, look for the nearest turnaround spot, or simply pull into a parking lot somewhere and turn around.
Only make u-turns at intersections if you have some form of protection from oncoming traffic, such as a green left-turn arrow for your lane.
If you have missed your turn, never use a fire station parking lot or driveway for a turnaround location. If you are caught pulling into a fire station solely for the purpose of turning around and going the opposite direction, you will receive a ticket that could cost you up to $250 and a day at traffic school.
California is one of the few states that still allow legal u-turns. Even so, make sure it is safe to turn around before making your turn. We at BISNAR | CHASE want to make sure everyone is safe on the roads. However, if you have been injured by a negligent driver who was making an illegal u-turn, you have the right to compensation. Contact a good personal injury lawyer as soon as you can to discuss your claim.
Learn more about California driving laws at California Motor Vehicle Codes.
