How to look at traffic lights when making a U-turn
In daily driving, U-turn is one of the common operations, but many drivers are confused about how to correctly observe the traffic lights when making a U-turn. This article will combine the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days, conduct a structured analysis of what to pay attention to when making a U-turn at traffic lights, and provide practical suggestions.
1. Basic rules for traffic lights when making a U-turn

Whether you need to look at the traffic lights when making a U-turn mainly depends on the specific settings and traffic signs of the intersection. Here is a summary of common situations:
| scene | Do you need to see the traffic lights? | Legal basis |
|---|---|---|
| There is a special U-turn signal light | Must comply with | Article 38 of the Road Traffic Safety Law |
| No U-turn prohibited signs and no dedicated signal lights | Need to see the left turn signal | Article 49 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law |
| There is a no U-turn sign | U-turns are strictly prohibited | Article 90 of the Road Traffic Safety Law |
2. U-turn controversy cases that are hotly discussed on the Internet
In the past 10 days, the following traffic topics related to U-turns have triggered widespread discussion:
| topic | Discussion popularity | focus of controversy |
|---|---|---|
| "There is no signal light in the U-turn lane" at an intersection in Hangzhou | Reading volume: 1.2 million+ | Do you need to wait for the green light to go straight? |
| "You are fined for making a U-turn at a yellow light" incident in Shanghai | Weibo hot search No. 8 | Is it illegal to make a U-turn on a yellow light? |
| Guangzhou's "U-turn at the virtual and solid line" penalty controversy | Douyin views 5 million+ | U-turn rules when the dashed and solid lines change |
3. Five things to note when turning around and looking at traffic lights
1.Observation of special signs takes priority: First confirm whether there are "U-turn allowed" or "U-turn prohibited" signs. These signs are more effective than ordinary traffic lights.
2.Dotted and solid lines determine timing: U-turns are allowed on the side of the dotted line of the double yellow line, but must be done to ensure safety and without affecting oncoming vehicles.
3.signal priority: When there are both left turn lights and circular lights, the left turn signal instructions should be followed first.
4.Special road section restrictions: U-turns are strictly prohibited on special sections such as railway crossings, crosswalks, bridges, etc., regardless of the status of the signal lights.
5.Yellow light handling principles: Vehicles that have crossed the stop line can continue to turn around, while vehicles that have not crossed the line should stop and wait.
4. Comparison of differences in U-turn rules in various places
Different cities have slightly different rules for U-turns. Here are the special regulations for major cities:
| city | special regulations | Penalty standards |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing | If there is no dedicated signal light, you need to wait for the omnidirectional red light. | 3 points deducted and 200 yuan fine |
| Shenzhen | Some intersections allow direct U-turns when the light turns green | 1 point deducted and 300 yuan fine |
| Chengdu | Auxiliary signs need to be observed at the changes between the dotted and solid lines | 3 points deducted and 100 yuan fine |
5. Expert advice and safety tips
1.Plan your route in advance: When using navigation, pay attention to the U-turn prompts to avoid temporary lane changes.
2.Keep an eye on things: Before making a U-turn, you should observe the rearview mirror and blind spot to ensure a safe distance.
3.Control vehicle speed: It is recommended to reduce the vehicle speed to below 10km/h to complete the U-turn.
4.Pay special attention at night: When visibility is poor at night, pay extra attention to the status of traffic lights and pedestrian movements.
5.Dispute handling: If you have any objection to the punishment, you can apply to view the law enforcement recorder video or intersection surveillance.
It can be seen from the above structured analysis that a correct understanding of traffic light rules when making a U-turn requires comprehensive consideration of traffic signs, signal light types and local special regulations. Drivers should develop the habit of observing in advance and operating with caution to ensure road traffic safety.
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