Australian drivers are being urged to think about the necessity of a U-turn, after the practice has come to the attention of law enforcement as one of the more understated threats to safety. Drivers who Unsafely or illegally perform U-turns repeatedly are subject to fines up to $478, a punishment many have claimed was unwarranted.
Why U–Turns pose a Risk
Judging by the word ‘turn’ itself, making a UTurn seems harmless. However, the opinion of traffic safety specialists dramatically differ. A failed attempt to perform a UTurn has the potential to disrupt the normal activities of a street or road, particularly a populated intersection or a crossing, causing untold chaos, with vehicles colliding and pedestrians completely bewildered.
What the Law Says
U-Turns are an exception to the more general rule of giving way to traffic and pedestrians before attempting a turn. According to the road rules of Australia, U-Turns are only legal to perform when Safe and legal. They are illegal during traffic Controlled via traffic lights unless expressly permitted, and restricted on Major Arterial Road, which significant signage usually indicates.
Demerit Point and Fine
| Offense | Fine Range (AUD) | Demerit Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illegal U-turn | $289 to $478 | 2 to 3 | Fine amount varies by state/territory. |
| Unsafe U-turn (fail to give way) | ~$478 | 3 | Higher penalty for safety risk. |
| Disobey No U-turn sign | ~$450 | 2 | Includes U-turn at intersections without permission. |
PoIicy Overhaul by States
Various states have intensified efforts to mitigate unsafe driving practices. As in the case of New South Wales, police have focused on “hot spots” and are now in the process of fining drivers caught attempting illegal U-turns at congested intersections. Similarly, the state of Victoria has also included this as part of its comprehensive road safety program for 2025, concentrating on actions that may appear trivial but are frequent causes of road accidents.
Public Response
Certain drivers have registered their dissatisfaction regarding the disproportionate amounts of the fines, maintaining that U-turns are the only option to get around city blocks. Other drivers also back the fines, indicating that they are effective in keeping the driver from using unpredictable driving behaviors.
Advice to Drivers
The use of U-Turns is only condoned if the driver has carefully thought out the route and planned the trip in advance, and so temptations of unsafe U-Turns can be avoided. Authorities state that the regulations are not merely formalities, but part of a rationalized plan to reduce accidents that need not happen. Turning ‘round should be an absolute last resort. You’ll need to take your eyes off of these directions to fully appreciate this, however, be warned that this “U-turn” is an exceptionally expensive proposition.
