The U-Turn: The most dangerous driving manoeuvre?
Arrive Alive reported that the U-Turn remains one of the most dangerous driver manoeuvres on roads worldwide. Paramedics respond daily to severe trauma from crashes that could have been prevented had it not been for the hasty decision to make a U-turn in traffic. But, why is the U-turn such a dangerous driving manoeuvre?
People often do not foresee the consequences that the U-Turn can have, which is often enough fatal as it is an unexpected driving stunt that usually does not allow time for the faster moving vehicle to change course and avoid an accident.
The U-turn is especially a risky move because the driver needs to cross lanes of traffic to complete the turn and it requires a street wide enough. It is also not always that easy to assume the speed of the oncoming traffic (that is if you can see them).
U-Turns are actually not legal in most locations and the first thing before you are about to make a U-Turn, you should ask yourself – Is it legal at this location? Just because there is no sign indicating that a U-turn is illegal, does not mean that it’s permitted. Arrive Alive states that U-Turns are not permitted at these areas:
-On a curve where approaching traffic from either direction cannot be seen for a distance of at least 150 metres.
-Within 30 metres of a railway crossing.
-Within 150 metres of a bridge, viaduct or tunnel where the view of traffic is limited.
-At undivided highways. A U-Turn is not legal on a controlled access highway except through an opening provided for that purpose in the dividing curb section, separation or line.
-U-turns are prohibited in no-passing zones and one way streets.
-In front of a fire station.
-At an intersection where there is a traffic light.
So, think again before you make that quick U-Turn next time, it might be the last turn you and your fellow road-user makes!