VTL 1160E, Improper U-Turn

A U-turn in general is a legal turn. However you can get a ticket for Improper U-Turn in three ways.

• 1. There is a sign that says no U-turn.
• 2. You violate another part of the VTL while making the U-turn.
• 3. You make an improper U-turn. The statute describing an improper U-turn is VTL 1160(e).

The exact wording is:

(e) U-turns. U-turns shall be made from and to that portion of the highway nearest the marked center line. Where more than one lane of a highway has been designated for left turns, U-turns shall be made only from the lane so designated that is adjacent to the marked center line. VTL 1160e

In other words, a motorist cannot cross over multiple lanes to make the U-turn. You must make that U-turn from the left lane to the other left lane.

For any improper U-turn, a first time ticket will put two points on you record. The fine is $150 + surcharge of $88 in NYC and $93 outside of NYC. Fines can be higher with prior such violations. If you have other points on your record a conviction of 1160(A) may trigger a Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee. Finally when this goes on your record it is viewable by your insurance company. They will in all likelihood raise your premiums as a result of this violation.

There are many defenses to 1160E tickets. Your attorney can go to court in your place to fight the ticket. The Benjamin Goldman Law Office has seen much success in getting them reduced to parking tickets or dismissed entirely. Please feel free to contact us for a free consultation.