When drivers turn around in a way that is prohibited by traffic law, they may be cited for an improper U-turn. New Jersey has laws against improper turns, and making an illegal U-turn is a specific violation that can result in a traffic ticket. An improper U-turn may seem like a minor mistake, but a citation can come with fines, points on one’s license, and increased insurance premiums.
In this article, we discuss the penalties for making an improper U-turn, scenarios that are considered improper U-turns, defense strategies against an improper U-turn ticket, and how an attorney can help. If you have been issued an improper U-turn ticket in New Jersey, contact the experienced New Jersey traffic ticket attorneys at Rosenblum Law, who can help reduce or avoid the penalties associated with this ticket.
Penalties for an Improper U-Turn in NJ
An improper U-turn ticket in New Jersey can have many consequences, including:
- A fine ranging from $85 to $140
- Three points added to one’s driving record
- Potentially increased insurance premiums
- A license suspension if the driver accrues 12 or more total points on their driving record, including the citation for an improper U-turn
- Civil or criminal liability if there are any damages or injuries as a result of the improper U-turn
These consequences can be avoided or reduced by pleading not guilty and fighting the ticket, which is best accomplished with the help of an experienced traffic ticket attorney.
What is Considered an Improper U-Turn in NJ?
New Jersey’s Revised Statutes Section 39:4-125 outlines the specific conditions under which drivers are prohibited from making U-turns. These include:
- Curves and Grades: U-turns are not allowed on curves or near the crest of a hill where visibility is limited.
- Obstructed View: Making a U-turn is prohibited at locations where the driver's view is obstructed within 500 feet in either direction along the highway.
- "No U-Turn" Signs: U-turns are forbidden on highways marked with "No U-Turn" signs.
Common Locations Where U-turns Are Prohibited in NJ
There are many locations in New Jersey where U-turns are prohibited. The most common are:
- Highways with “No U-Turn” signs
- Intersections controlled by traffic signals
- Business districts
- School zones
- Railroad crossings
- Limited-visibility areas, such as curves or hills
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Defenses Against an Improper U-Turn Ticket
There are several possible ways to defend against an improper U-turn ticket and mitigate the consequences. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Clear Signage or Road Markings: There are no visible "No U-Turn" signs or markings, or signs that are missing, damaged, or obstructed.
- Poor Visibility of the Restriction Sign: The sign was there but blocked by parked vehicles, construction, or weather conditions like fog or rain.
- Extenuating Circumstances: The U-turn was made to avoid an accident, medical emergency, or road hazard.
- Law Enforcement Errors: The location or other details on the ticket are incorrect, or the officer did not have a clear view of the alleged violation.
- The U-Turn Was Legal: There were no posted restrictions, or the U-turn complied with NJ traffic laws.
- Officer’s Subjective Judgment: The U-turn was made safely without interfering with traffic, but the officer incorrectly deemed it improper.
An experienced traffic ticket attorney is best equipped to employ a defense strategy, increasing the odds of a favorable outcome.
Contact Rosenblum Law Today
If you’ve received a ticket for an improper U-turn in New Jersey, don’t just accept the penalties, such as fines, points, or increased insurance premiums. Although many drivers assume they have no choice but to pay the ticket, this is not the case. Fighting the ticket with a traffic ticket attorney can reduce or eliminate costly penalties that remain on your driving record.
At Rosenblum Law, our skilled traffic ticket attorneys have extensive experience defending drivers against improper U-turn violations. We can challenge the allegations and negotiate for reduced penalties, which may help to minimize the long-term impact. Contact us today for a free consultation.
