Where can you make a U-turn on Missouri roads? Here’s what state law says
Every driver needs to make a 180 sometimes. But in Missouri, turning around in the wrong place could cost you.
If you’ve accidentally rolled past your turn in a new part of town, your navigation app might cry out, “make a U-turn.” But despite their seemingly complete knowledge of Missouri’s roads, apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze might be advising an illegal move, since they don’t take into account all local driving laws.
Star reader Jim asked about the U-turn laws, calling drivers’ maneuvers “crazy unsafe” and “dangerous.”
Missouri’s traffic laws specify when drivers can make a U-turn on the state’s roads. It depends on how busy the street is and its conditions.
Where can you make a U-turn in Missouri?
U-turns are prohibited in Missouri business districts, which are areas with businesses or offices along 300 feet of the road, according to Missouri law. On other streets, they are only legal if the U-turn “can be made in safety and without interfering with other traffic.”
In addition, you are not allowed to turn around at a Missouri intersection if:
There is a traffic light or police officer at the intersection.
Your car is not visible for 300 feet in either direction, for example if you are on a curve or near the top of a hill.
Turning around would be dangerous or interfere with other traffic.
In addition, drivers should obey signs that specify no U-turns at a specific intersection.
What happens if you get caught breaking Missouri’s U-turn laws?
Violating the state’s law on U-turns is considered a class C misdemeanor, which could land you up to 15 days in jail, up to $700 fine or both. The misdemeanor also adds points to your driver’s record, which could lead to losing your license.
Have questions about Missouri traffic laws? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
