I never know what I am going to receive in my e-mail regarding this column. A while ago, I received a tongue-in-cheek request to settle a disagreement between a husband and wife about U-turns. Neither of them realized that there are actually very few places in British Columbia where a driver can legally make one.
Yes, U-turns are legal in British Columbia in some circumstances, but there are several important restrictions.
What Does the Law Say?
Section 168 of the Motor Vehicle Act regulates U-turns, which the Act calls a “reverse turn.”
The basic rule is that a driver must not make a U-turn unless it can be done without interfering with other traffic. There are also specific situations where the law prohibits a U-turn, even if the driver believes the road is clear.
U-Turns at Traffic Lights
Unless there is a sign stating that U-turns are permitted, you must not make a U-turn at an intersection that is controlled by a traffic control signal.
“traffic control signal” means a traffic control device, whether manually, electrically or mechanically operated, by which traffic is directed to stop and to proceed.
In other words, a green light does not give you permission to turn around. If the intersection is signal-controlled, look for a sign specifically permitting the U-turn.
What About Centre Lines?
The centre line on the road is another important consideration. A U-turn must not be made across a line painted down the centre of the highway. This applies whether the line is double solid, single solid, solid and broken, or a single broken line.
Section 155 of the Motor Vehicle Actregulates crossing lines painted on the road. In general, it permits a driver to cross a centre line to pass another vehicle and, in some circumstances, to avoid an obstruction. Those exceptions do not make a U-turn permissible.
Limited Visibility
A U-turn must not be made where visibility is limited or where the manoeuvre would be unsafe. This includes situations such as making the turn on a curve or on or near the crest of a hill where approaching traffic cannot see you in time.
Section 168 specifically addresses visibility near the crest of a grade. If a driver approaching from either direction cannot see your vehicle within 150 metres, the U-turn is prohibited.
U-Turns in Business Districts
U-turns are also prohibited in a business district unless the turn is made at an intersection where there is no traffic control signal.
“business district” means the territory contiguous to a portion of a highway having a length of 200 m along which there are buildings used for business, industrial or public purposes occupying
(a) at least 100 m of frontage on one side of that portion, or
(b) at least 100 m collectively on both sides of that portion,
and includes that portion of the highway;
Municipal Bylaws Can Add Restrictions
The Motor Vehicle Act is not necessarily the end of the story. Municipalities may regulate U-turns within their boundaries through bylaws. A municipality can impose restrictions that go beyond the provincial rules, including prohibiting U-turns altogether in particular locations.
This means that a U-turn that appears to be permitted by the Motor Vehicle Act may still be prohibited by a municipal bylaw. The rules can therefore vary from one municipality to another.
U-Turn Offences and Penalties
There are several different U-turn offences under section 168. The fine and penalty points depend on the particular offence.
| Offence | Section | Fine | Penalty Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unsafe U-Turn | 168 (a) | $121 | 2 |
| Prohibited U-Turn | 168 (b) (iii) | $121 | 2 |
| U-Turn at Intersection | 168 (b) (iv) | $167 | 2 |
| U-Turn in Business District | 168 (b) (v) | $121 | 2 |
What ICBC Says
ICBC’s Learn to Drive Smart guide warns that U-turns are often risky. It suggests that drivers consider alternatives, such as driving around the block or continuing to a side road where the turn can be made more safely.
If you find you are going in the wrong direction, you may be tempted to make a U-turn. U-turns are often risky.
When you are deciding whether to make a U-turn, think about some alternatives, like driving around the block or continuing on to a side road where you can turn more safely.
Where Can You Make a U-Turn?
So where can you legally make a U-turn in British Columbia?
Everywhere else, as long as it is safe!
That sounds simple, but remember that “safe” is only part of the test. You also need to consider the centre line, visibility, traffic signals, signs, business districts and any municipal bylaws that apply where you are driving.
Story URL: https://www.drivesmartbc.ca/turns/are-u-turns-legal-british-columbia
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Tim Schewe
Road Safety Advocate
DriveSmartBC.ca
