Yes, U-turns are legal in Texas, but only when they can be made safely and are not prohibited by signs, road markings, visibility restrictions, or specific local ordinances. Texas drivers are allowed to turn around on most roads, at many intersections, and even at traffic lights, as long as the U-turn can be completed without interfering with other traffic or creating a hazard.
This is where many drivers get confused, a U-turn is legal unless something makes it unsafe or illegal at that moment. A driver must consider visibility distance, posted signs, lane markings, approaching vehicles, and right of way. So, Texas law doesn’t forbid U-turns it only forbids dangerous U-turns.
What Texas Law Says About U-Turns
Texas doesn’t use the specific phrase “U-turn” in most of the statute. Instead, the law focuses on safe turning and prohibited turning conditions. The rule comes from Texas Transportation Code §545.102, which states:
A driver may not turn the vehicle to move in the opposite direction unless the movement can be made safely and without interfering with other traffic.
This means:
- U-turns are legal
- You don’t need a sign allowing them
- They become illegal when they are unsafe or interfere with other drivers
Some roads also have posted NO U-TURN signs, and ignoring those is a traffic violation.
Are U-Turns Legal at Traffic Lights in Texas?
1. If there is a green light
A U-turn is allowed unless a sign forbids it AND it can be done safely.
2. If there is a green arrow
You may make a U-turn only if the arrow directs you to turn left and the U-turn can be made safely. A left-turn arrow also authorizes a U-turn at the same intersection (unless prohibited by a sign).
3. If there is a red light
You may NOT make a U-turn on red in Texas — unlike turning right on red, the law does not allow turning around on red.
4. If a sign prohibits it
Signs override general rules. Even if a U-turn could be safe, a posted sign makes it illegal.
Visibility Rule: The 500-Foot Rule
You cannot make a U-turn on a curve or near a hill where other drivers may not see you. Drivers must be able to see your vehicle from at least 500 feet in both directions.
This rule prevents U-turns:
- On blind curves
- At hilltops
- In poor visibility areas
Illegal Example
Making a U-turn on a hill where oncoming cars cannot see you in time.
Are U-Turns Legal in Business Areas?
Yes, U-turns are allowed on city streets and business districts as long as no sign prohibits them and visibility is clear. However, commercial zones often have:
- Crosswalks
- Pedestrian traffic
- Divided medians
- “NO U-TURN” signs
Drivers must also yield to pedestrians in crosswalks when turning around.
Can You U-Turn Across a Median?
Yes, if it is not marked or signed as illegal. Texas medians often include designated turn bays. Drivers must yield to vehicles approaching from both directions.
Illegal Across:
- Raised curbs marked to block turning
- Double solid yellow lines when unsafe
- Physical barriers or posted signs
When U-Turns Become Illegal
A legal U-turn instantly becomes illegal if it:
- Interferes with other traffic
- Causes another driver to brake suddenly
- Creates a collision risk
- Blocks pedestrians’ right of way
- Violates a posted sign or marking
Accident Liability
If a crash occurs during a U-turn, the U-turn driver is almost always at fault, even if they believed they had room to turn.
Penalties for Illegal U-Turns in Texas
Penalties vary by county but may include:
- Fines of $75–$300
- Court fees
- Increased insurance rates
- Fault in accidents
If the U-turn causes an injury crash, additional fines and charges apply.
Are U-Turns on Highways Legal?
In most cases, no. Highways, toll roads, and controlled-access roads prohibit U-turns except where specifically marked for use (like turnaround lanes under overpasses). Unauthorized U-turns on highways are considered dangerous driving.
Final Note
Yes, U-turns are legal in Texas, as long as they are safe, visible from 500 feet, obey signs, and do not interfere with other traffic. Texas does not require special permission for U-turns; it only prohibits dangerous ones.
