When you’re doing a U turn into a road with two or more lanes do you have to wait for all lanes to be clear before going or just the inside lane?
Answers (2)
Considering that u turns are dangerous, and therefore illegal in most jurisdictions, there is no definite answer to your question. However, if you do intend to execute a u turn with oncoming traffic it would be ideal to wait for all lanes to be clear. Very few vehicles have a turning radius that allows a 180 degree turn into the next lane over. You will be encroaching into at least the second lane over when maneuvering the turn. Additionally, in the event you are on a motorcycle or driving a Smart ForTwo, anyone in any other oncoming lane will not know your intention when you begin your u turn and will likely assume you are making a left turn to cross all lanes of traffic. This is not only rude to frighten other drivers and make them slam on their brakes potentially causing a wreck with vehicles following them but they could take evasive action by entering the same lane you are planning to occupy thinking they will avoid an accident with you by going behind you, assuming you are making a left turn across all lanes. If you must perform a u turn you should wait until all lanes are clear.
In jurisdictions that do not forbid a U-turn, the requirements are the same as for a left turn.
As a practical matter, you don't want to scratch your paint, so it only makes sense to wait until the road is entirely clear.
I have to assume you mean two lanes each way, since it is difficult to do a U-turn with only two lanes total width.