Police continue to monitor unattended U-turns and dangerously reckless driving which in turn warrants an outstanding number of fines and high financial penalties. Getting a U-turn at a stop light where there is no green U-turn sign is common and can cost an average of $603 along with the deduction of critical driving merit points.
Every State is Different
The rule of U turn driving is universal throughout the country. Although basic principles of U-turn do exist in different states like New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. The traffic rule in most states U-turn at a traffic light only is allowed when there is a sign. Attempting to quickly and easily do a U-turn without a sign can result in extremely high penalties.
Purpose of the Rule
Experts believe that the U-turn at traffic lights is designed to avoid any accidents with vehicles, and pedestrians. U-turns at traffic lights is rule of thumb illegal when controlled at the intersection as there is an abundance of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. illegal U-turns increases the chances of accidents.
The Price a Driver Has to Pay
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fine Amount (NSW) | $603 |
| Demerit Points (NSW) | 2 demerit points |
| Other States’ Penalties | Similar but may vary in amount and demerit points |
| Reason for Fine Severity | Corresponds to the risk level and danger posed by illegal U-turns |
| Legal Context | Illegal U-turns include crossing solid lines, U-turns at traffic lights |
| Enforcement | Police and road authorities monitor and enforce with increasing strictness |
Common Misunderstandings
Surveys of road safety campaigns indicate that many drivers mistakenly think that the only prohibition for performing a U-turn at an intersection is from a traffic sign. It is the exact opposite: that a U-turn at traffic lights is prohibited is the default position. These assumptions have resulted in the issuing of thousands of fines across Australia each year.
Police and CCTV
Patrol officers and roadside cameras are taking a larger share of the responsibility for the detection of breaches of the law. Transport agencies have a touchless CCTV, and a blip-and-go camera at major junctions that is able to record a U-turn, and other maneuvers that are contrary to the law. Police have indicated that the fine-shedding excuse “I didn’t know the rule” is not valid.
To Drivers
Authorities would like to see more drivers taking their time and not rushing to violent driving maneuvers. Simple message: taking the law into your own hands may mean in excess of $600 in fines along with a few other users of the road. Safe driving in Australia is more important than ever with the ever-increasing congestion and accident rates.
