Traffic Offences
Improper U-Turns in Ontario
A U-turn isn't banned everywhere in Ontario — but near curves, hills, railway crossings, certain intersections, and anywhere a sign says otherwise, turning back the way you came can mean a ticket.
Quick answer: Section 143 of the Highway Traffic Act prohibits turning a vehicle to proceed in the opposite direction in specific risky locations -- on a curve, near the top of a hill, within a certain distance of a railway crossing, at some intersections, and anywhere a No U-Turn sign is posted. Courts have applied the provision broadly to cover any turn that reverses a vehicle's direction, not just a single-motion "U-turn" in the strict sense.
Key Takeaways
- U-turns aren't banned everywhere -- the restriction applies to specific locations and situations.
- Curves, hilltops, railway crossings, certain intersections, and posted No U-Turn signs are the main restricted spots.
- Courts read the section broadly -- a three-point turn can be treated the same as a single-motion U-turn.
- The set fine and any demerit points are set out in the current regulations and printed on the ticket itself.
Where U-turns are restricted
Section 143 of the Highway Traffic Act prohibits turning a vehicle to proceed in the opposite direction in several specific situations: on a curve or near the top of a hill where the driver's view is obstructed within a certain distance; within a set distance of a level railway crossing; at an intersection where a traffic control signal is present, unless a U-turn is specifically permitted there; and anywhere a No U-Turn sign has been posted by the relevant road authority. Outside of these specific situations, a U-turn is generally not itself prohibited, though drivers must still complete it safely and without obstructing other traffic.
Why this isn't limited to a single-motion turn
The Highway Traffic Act doesn't define "U-turn" narrowly as a single continuous arc. Courts have interpreted the restriction to cover any manoeuvre that has the effect of turning a vehicle to proceed back in the direction it came from, which can include a three-point turn executed using a driveway, laneway, or the width of the road. In a restricted location, breaking the turn into multiple smaller movements doesn't necessarily avoid the restriction.
Penalties for an improper U-turn
The set fine and any demerit points for an improper U-turn are established under the current regulations and can be updated from time to time. Rather than citing a specific figure that could be out of date, the most reliable source for the exact amount that applies to a given ticket is the amount printed on the ticket itself, or the current set fine schedule maintained by the Ontario Court of Justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are U-turns illegal everywhere in Ontario?
No. The restriction under section 143 applies to specific situations -- curves, hilltops, railway crossings, certain intersections, and posted No U-Turn signs -- not to every U-turn everywhere.
Does a three-point turn count as a U-turn under this rule?
It can. Courts have applied the restriction broadly to cover any manoeuvre that turns the vehicle back in the direction it came from, not just a single continuous arc.
What's the fine for an improper U-turn?
The fine is set out in the current regulations and printed on the ticket itself. Amounts can be updated over time, so the figure on your own ticket is the reliable number for your case.
Sources
Charged With an Improper U-Turn?
If you’ve been charged and want to discuss your options with a traffic ticket lawyer, reach out now for a free consultation.