Are U-Turns Legal in Missouri?
In Missouri, the laws regarding various types of turns while driving apply to U-turns as well. The general rules for turning in Missouri are found in RSMo Section 304.021. While there are no specific state laws dedicated solely to U-turns, they are heavily addressed by other state statutes and an extensive number of local ordinances. While they are not specifically prohibited by law, there are a number of conditions that dictate when and where U-turns are legal.
Under Section 304.021, 1(5), vehicles are forbidden from being driven upon a roadway excepted by the permit of the Missouri Department of Transportation (MDOT). However, the road may be crossed for the purpose of turning off the road. Additionally, Subsection 9 of the same statute states that it is unlawful to turn a vehicle suddenly from a direct course or when in a lane used for public transportation without giving a required signal. This includes driving on a highway and turning into the path of oncoming traffic , which could involve the need for a U-turn.
The MDOT has the power to implement statewide regulations for the safe use of U-turns. The requirements for passing operate mover restrictions and the powered scooter pass way restriction are set within Sections 307.190 and 307.202 respectively. Sample local ordinances are the Columbia Ordinances. In Columbia, ordinances 16-172 and 16-174 address the U-turn versus left turn law. The first states that drivers must yield the right of way to all vehicles as they make a U-turn. They must also not drive across safety zones and are forbidden from using a U-turn to interfere with emergency response vehicles.
Section 16-174 states that U-turns are illegal at any highway intersection outside of metropolitan districts, except when they are made at locations specifically designated for their use. U-turns are also prohibited at intersections having circular section vehicular traffic control signs, signs, signals, and devices. Other prohibitions include junctions with a controlled intersection and where a No U-Turn sign has been placed.
Where Motorists Can Lawfully Make U-Turns
U-turns are generally permitted under Missouri law in the following situations:
- Between intersections on a roadway without median dividers unless signs are posted to prohibit such turns;
- In a residential district where there are no intersections or if an intersection is at least 1,000 feet away;
- At an intersection where turn movement is authorized by a green arrow (but not at any other intersection without approval);
- Across a single, non-signalized, undivided roadway along and on the same street as a dividing parkway;
- Made from one private road or driveway to another private road or driveway when it can be made in safety and with reasonable regard to other traffic; and
- Upon a roadway not prohibited by statute or ordinance made in safety by a commercial motor vehicle driver to enter the opposite road at certain hazardous locations as required by federal regulations.
The law specifically prohibits U-turns: (i) at an intersection controlled by traffic lights, unless a green arrow is displayed; (ii) at any place where signs prohibiting such turns have been erected; and (iii) between intersections if the distance between intersections is 100 feet or less.
Situations in Which U-Turns Are Not Allowed
All turns shall be made as closely as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except that left turns may be made in a left lane lawfully designated for turning movements and U-turns are permitted in any place except where they are prohibited by this chapter, and except as follows:
(1) In the approach to the crest of a hill, upon curves, spans of bridges, or where official signs prohibit such turn.
(2) In locations where turning movements will unduly interfere with the movement of traffic. 6300.050.
As you can see, you cannot make a U-turn in places where it is likely to cause an accident. Below are some more locations where U-turns are prohibited in Missouri:
Highway
U-turns are prohibited on any Missouri highway except at intersections or as permitted by signed designations.
Near School
U-turns are prohibited in the areas of a street within 500 feet of any school building.
Intersections of Major Streets
U-turns are prohibited, except at intersections with traffic lights, at the intersection of any street with any major street.
Traffic Control Devices
U-turns are prohibited at intersections where any type of traffic control device is installed unless the device specifically allows U-turns.
Making U-Turns Safely
Once you are clear that the law permits U-turns in your specific situation, you have to consider the best way to carry out the maneuver. A poorly made or hasty U-turn can lead to a serious collision. In fact, it’s often the case that U-turns lead to personal injury situations because many people rush and/or don’t know the safest methods for making U-turns. The following are some basic guidelines when it comes to making a safe U-turn: Use the Proper Roadway: U-turns should only be performed on roads that are wide enough to allow for a U-turn without veering off into oncoming traffic in the process. Yield to Any Oncoming Traffic: Stay alert to other drivers who may be on the roadway and yield to their right of way. If necessary, prevent a U-turn if it’s likely to disrupt traffic on another road. Maintain A Safe Distance from Traffic: When you begin the U-turn process, as a yield requirement , you should start the process far enough from oncoming traffic to not get too close to the oncoming lane. This is especially true if there are obstacles hugging the curb that could block your vision. Avoid Stopping Unless Absolutely Necessary: Once you start the U-turn process, it’s best to complete the cycle rather than stopping halfway through. If you stop (especially if you stop in traffic), you create an unexpected hazard for the drivers approaching the intersection. Instead of stopping, it could be better to back-up and away from traffic if you’re not able to complete the U-turn as planned. Make Sure There Is No Sign Restricting U-Turns: As mentioned above, signs prohibiting U-turns should be observed carefully. If you see any sign that would indicate that U-turns are not permitted, do not pursue the U-turn. If you’re unsure about the legalities of a U-turn, it’s best to use an alternate route to avoid any type of U-turn that might be considered illegal.
Penalties for Making Illegal U-Turns
The penalties for an illegal U-turn hinge not only on the specific circumstances of the situation, but also upon how cooperative the driver is with the officer writing the ticket. If a driver complies with the officer’s request and is otherwise well mannered, the officer may give the driver a break and write a warning instead of the ticket for the illegal U-turn. Generally, the officer has more leeway in giving warnings for minor traffic violations than they do more serious offenses. If the officer ultimately decides to write the ticket, the driver can expect the ticket to be for "failure to yield to oncoming traffic" or "improper turn." For a first offense, the fine is typically around $225. However, additional penalties could include points on the driver’s license and insurance premiums going up as a result of the infraction being placed on their driving record. In Missouri, points are assigned to your driving record for infractions or violations that you commit such as an illegal U-turn or speeding. Carrying too many points on your record can result in the suspension of the driver’s driving privileges. For instance, if you get eight points on your driving record within an eighteen-month period, the state could suspend your driving privileges for 30 days. If you have received a ticket for an illegal U-turn, hiring an experienced traffic ticket attorney to handle the matter is the best way to avoid points on your driving record and the consequent rate hikes in the premiums on your car insurance.
U-Turn Laws Compared to Your Neighboring States
The understanding of U-turn laws in neighboring states is important because they can vary significantly, impacting those who frequently cross state lines. Illinois, Nebraska, Arkansas, Iowa, and Kansas each have their own rules regarding U-turns. In Illinois, U-turns are generally permitted unless stated otherwise, while in Nebraska, they are only allowed at intersections or divided highways where signs do not prohibit it. Arkansas prohibits the use of U-turns except when necessary to turn around and continue in the same direction. Similarly , Iowa prohibits U-turns except at painted intersections, controlled intersections, or intersections with multi lane roundabouts. Kansas permits U-turns only when the driver is not required to stop, as long as the maneuver does not interfere with other traffic or is not otherwise prohibited. Note that all of these exceptions are rare.