Uturns

A U-turn is a driving maneuver that reverses the direction of travel by turning the vehicle around to go back the way it came. The maneuver generally requires sufficient lane width and clear sight lines. In many places, it is permitted only at intersections or specific median openings, and is prohibited by signs or laws in other locations.

Direct U-turns occur at intersections where a dedicated opening or median crossovers allows turning across opposing traffic, often with a traffic signal or regulated by signage. Indirect U-turns route the vehicle via a sequence of turns to reverse direction without crossing traffic directly, such as design approaches that move a left turn first into a median, then re-enter the road in the opposite direction (a design sometimes referred to as a Michigan Left). Some highways designate separate U-turn lanes or median openings to facilitate the maneuver.

Regulatory and safety considerations: U-turns can create conflicts with vehicles in the opposite direction, pedestrians, and bicycles, particularly in urban areas or at high speeds. Because of these risks, many jurisdictions prohibit U-turns in or near intersections, on curves, or where visibility is limited; others allow them only with signage or during daylight. When legal, drivers should signal, use the proper lane, yield to oncoming traffic, and ensure a wide, clear arc.

Alternatives and design options: To turn around safely, drivers may use a different block, a driveway, a roundabout, or a designated U-turn lane or median opening. Traffic engineers sometimes implement U-turns via design features like median cutouts or Michigan Left junctions to optimize flow and minimize conflict points.