Traffic rules lessons: how to properly perform a U-turn on the highway

Anna Tkach

AutoPortal editorial team

21,644 views 2 min read

Everyone knows the standard situation when several cars simultaneously "dive" into a gap on the highway intended for a U-turn. Is it allowed to do this?

Asks Andriy:

On the Odesa highway, near Chabany, there is a U-turn area. Oncoming traffic there is very heavy, so drivers have to wait for an opportunity to perform the maneuver — sometimes the queue stretches for half an hour. Because of this, a whole line of cars forms before the U-turn, and when a gap appears in the oncoming flow, they all try to turn around at once.

Question 1
Is it allowed for several vehicles to perform a U-turn simultaneously?

Question 2
If cars must turn around one by one, then how is the road marking organized in this case (the photo shows that the marking allows three cars to prepare for the turn at the same time)?

Question 3
If a U-turn by several cars simultaneously is not prohibited, then how to correctly perform this maneuver? The first car enters the pocket according to the marking (photo 2). And how should the others act?

Question 4
If according to the rules only the first car can turn around, then who will be found guilty in case of an accident during the simultaneous maneuver?

Experts of the driving school answer:

1. A U-turn by several cars simultaneously is possible only if there is sign 5.27 "U-turn zone marked with road markings". In this situation, simultaneous U-turn of several vehicles is not allowed.

5.27_b.gif

2. As seen in the photo, the U-turn is allowed only from the left lane, which is separated by a solid line of marking 1.1 and marked with sign 5.26 "U-turn place".

5.26_b.gif

3. When performing a U-turn, the car must enter the "pocket" separated by marking 1.16.2 (directional safety islands). Since traffic moves at low speed in this place, such a "pocket" is specially provided. The presence of the "pocket" and acceleration lane gives the driver the opportunity to increase speed and safely merge into the main flow.

4. According to clause 10.1, before starting to move, changing lanes, or any change in direction, the driver must make sure that the maneuver will be safe and will not create obstacles or danger to other road users.

Summary:
The U-turn near Chabany must be performed one by one, entering the special "pocket" and not interfering with other road users.

If you do not understand signs or markings on Ukrainian roads — send your questions with the city and address to [email protected]

All answers will be published in the "Traffic Rules Lessons" section.