Micheal Robinson, a resident of Brampton, was given a ticket for disobeying a no U-turn sign. According to Robinson, he was just making a standard three-point turn. So, he disagreed with the ticket and challenged it in court. He fought the case valiantly, but the court found him guilty of disobeying a traffic sign. Mr. Robinson was given two demerit points, but the usual fine of $85 was waived off.
Thus, making a U-turn in Ontario can be a tricky business. There are specific laws and rules that drivers must follow when making this type of turn, and if you don’t know them, you could end up with a costly ticket. This article will discuss everything you need to know about U-turns in Ontario, including the penalties for getting caught making one, how to fight a ticket, and the most frequently asked questions about this topic.
Table of Contents
What is a U-turn? And Why is it Used?
A U-turn is a type of turn that allows the driver to reverse the vehicle’s direction. It can be used when the driver needs to turn around or change directions. The U-turn can be executed by making a series of turns or done in one fluid motion.
There are many reasons why a driver may need to make a U-turn, such as if they missed their turn or need to change directions. Whatever the reason, it is important to know how to properly execute a U-turn so that you do not end up in an accident.
U-turns can be dangerous if not done properly. Drivers need to be aware of oncoming traffic and yield to any vehicles with the right-of-way. U-turns should also be avoided in areas where they are not allowed, such as near intersections or on busy roads.
What are the Laws Regarding U-turns in Ontario?
In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act governs the rules for making a U-turn. The law states that you can only make a U-turn at an intersection where it is safe to do so and where there is no sign prohibiting U-turns. You must also yield the right-of-way to any oncoming traffic before making your turn.
Section 143 of the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario States that:
(143) No driver or operator of a vehicle upon a highway shall turn the vehicle so as to proceed in the opposite direction when,
(a) upon a curve where traffic approaching the vehicle from either direction cannot be seen by the driver of the vehicle within a distance of 150 metres;
(b) on a railway crossing or within 30 metres of a railway crossing;
(c) upon an approach to or near the crest of a grade where the vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of another vehicle approaching from either direction within 150 metres; or
(d) within 150 metres of a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel where the driver’s view is obstructed within such distance.
Apart from this, section 144 (9) of the Act makes it mandatory for the drivers to obey all traffic signs. It states:
144 (9). The provisions of this section are subject to any sign, as prescribed by the regulations, forbidding a left turn, right turn, through movement or combination thereof that is posted at an intersection, and every driver shall obey every such sign.
How to Make a U-turn in Ontario?
In Ontario, you can make a U-turn:
- On a divided highway, unless there is a sign prohibiting it
- When you yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic
The accurate way of making a U-turn in Ontario is described below in detail:
- Check for traffic in both directions and yield to any oncoming vehicles.
- You must be able to see up to 150 metres in either direction before making a U-turn.
- Make sure that no motor vehicle is approaching.
- In any condition, you must not make a U-turn in a curve.
- In Ontario, it is illegal to make a U-turn if you’re on a railway crossing, near a hilltop, bridge, or tunnel that might be blocking your view.
- Signal your intention to turn right and check behind using your side mirrors and rearview mirror.
- Look over your shoulder and pull over to the far right side of the road before stopping.
- Now, you must signal a left turn.
- As soon as you find the way, turn quickly and sharply into the opposite lane.
- Make sure the turn is wide enough so that you don’t have to cross over any lines or drive on the shoulder.
- Return to your side of the road before continuing on your way.
This is how you make a U-turn in Ontario!
What is a Three-Point Turn? Is it the same as a U-turn?
A three-point turn is different from a U-turn. In a three-point turn, you execute the turn in three separate maneuvers. A three-point turn, also known as a Y-turn or K-turn, is a method of turning a vehicle around in a limited space by backing up, turning the steering wheel to the opposite side, and driving forward.
This maneuver is often used when making a U-turn is not possible or legal. The three-point turn should be executed slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the vehicle or hitting any objects.
How to Make a Three-Point Turn in Ontario?
To make a three-point turn, follow these steps:
- First, stop your car parallel to and close to the right-hand curb or edge of the road.
- Make sure that you’re not too close to any car parked at the curb. You should also be able to see traffic in both directions.
- Next, signal a right turn and check behind you for traffic.
- Now, turn your steering wheel sharply to the right and move forward slowly. Stop when the front of your car is even with the back of the parked car.
- Once again, check for traffic in both directions.
- Now, turn your steering wheel sharply to the left until your car is parallel to the curb.
- Slowly back up until you’re even with the car in front of you.
- Finally, turn your steering wheel sharply to the right and pull forward into the original traffic lane.
- This is how you make a three-point turn!
As you can see, a three-point turn is different from a U-turn. A U-turn is made in one manoeuvre, while a three-point turn is made in three separate manoeuvres.
What is the Penalty For Disobeying a U-turn Sign in Ontario?
A fine of $85 will be imposed if you disobey a U-turn sign in Ontario. Two demerit points will also be added to your driving record if you are convicted of this offense.
Please note that the penalties will be different if you are caught making an improper turn at an intersection controlled by a traffic signal.
How to Fight a U-turn Ticket in Ontario?
If you have been issued a U-turn ticket in Ontario, many firms might be able to provide you with a free consultation in this regard. It might be a good idea to plead guilty in most cases. However, if you proceed contrary to that, here are a few things you can do to fight it.
First, you can try to prove that you had a legitimate reason for making the U-turn. This could include showing that you were trying to avoid an accident or that you were following directions from a GPS device.
Another way you fight the U-turn ticket in Ontario is by arguing the visibility of the signboard prohibiting U-turns. If you can prove that the sign was not visible or that it was obstructed somehow, you may be able to have your ticket dismissed. If you argue that the sign prohibiting U-turns was not visible, you will need to provide evidence of this. This could include photos or videos showing the sign in its location or testimony from witnesses who saw the sign.
Lastly, if you believe that the police officer who issued the ticket made a mistake, you can request a trial. You will have an opportunity to present your case and argue why you should not be convicted of making an illegal U-turn at the trial.
If you are successful in any of these defenses, you will not have to pay the fine for the U-turn ticket, and your driving record will remain clean. But the best way is to follow the rules and avoid to disobey sign prohibiting a u-turn.
Conclusion
U-turns are allowed in Ontario unless a sign explicitly prohibits them. If you make a U-turn without the proper signage, you can be fined $85 and receive two demerit points on your driving record.
You need to keep a few things in mind when making a U-turn. First, you will need to check for oncoming traffic and any pedestrians who may be in the area. Once it is safe to do so, you will need to signal that you are making a turn and begin making the turn. You will need to turn the wheel all the way around so that the vehicle is facing the opposite direction. Once you have completed the turn, you can continue on your way.
Making a U-turn can be tricky, so practicing in an empty parking lot or another safe area is important before attempting it on a busy road. Remember to always check for oncoming traffic and pedestrians before making your move. With a bit of practice, you will be able to execute a perfect U-turn in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are U-turns banned in Ontario?
U-turns are not outright banned in Ontario, but several conditions must be met for a U-turn to be legal. First and foremost, the driver must ensure that it is safe to make the turn, and there must be no oncoming traffic. Secondly, the driver must use turn signals to signal their intention to turn, and finally, the car making the U-turn must yield to any pedestrians or cyclists who have the right of way.
Can you make a U-turn on the red light in Ontario?
The Highway Traffic Act in Ontario does not prohibit drivers from making a U-turn at a red light. However, drivers must exercise caution and yield to oncoming traffic before turning near traffic lights. Where there is heavy traffic or the view of oncoming traffic is obstructed, it may be safest to wait until the traffic light turns green before making a U-turn.
Does a U-turn traffic ticket impact your insurance rates?
Yes, a U-turn traffic ticket can affect insurance rates. If you are convicted of making an improper U-turn, your insurance company may raise your rates or even cancel your policy. Insurance companies consider U-turns to be a high-risk maneuver, and they view vehicle owner who makes them as more likely to be involved in an accident. If you have been ticketed for making a U-turn or improper left turn, it is important to consult with an experienced traffic attorney who can help you fight the charge and avoid having your insurance rates increased.
How long do U-turn traffic tickets stay on your driving record in Ontario?
U-turn traffic tickets in Ontario generally remain on your driving record for a period of three years. However, if you receive multiple U-turn tickets or other traffic violations, your insurance company may choose to increase your rates or even non-renew your policy. To avoid these consequences, it is important to follow the road rules and use extreme caution when making any type of turn.
