Do you know the difference between change of direction and change of direction? We explain everything you need to know.
For some people it is not clear the difference between both maneuvers, so we will explain below each of them, which in any case must be performed in line with the regulations established by the DGT for this purpose and paying close attention when performing them to ensure that no potential road user is put at risk.
The change of direction
The change of direction of a vehicle on a road is nothing more than turning around by making a 180º turn to position itself in the lane in the opposite direction to the one in which it was traveling. Sometimes the expression “U-turn” is used. It is always recommended to do it slowly and in first or second gear.
U-turn rules
This maneuver should always be performed properly in a place where it can be done as quickly as possible, both for pedestrians and for any other vehicle.
As a general guideline, the vehicle should be placed as close as possible to the left edge of the traffic lane, as long as it does not interrupt traffic and does not create danger.
This maneuver must always be carried out with the This maneuver must always be performed with the turn signal or with hand signals, except on highways and freeways where it is mandatory to perform this type of operation in the places designed for this purpose.
The way to perform the operation is:
- In town: it shall be carried out using other roads (previously signaled or not). Generally they are urban roads that are reached with a change of direction and surrounding blocks to reach the traffic in the opposite direction. It can also be done in traffic circles or squares with turning traffic.
- On conventional roads, there may also be traffic circles, although generally the change of direction can be made without hindering traffic, as long as there are no continuous lines that prevent it or the maneuver is not expressly prohibited.
- On highways and freeways, this maneuver is totally prohibited and must be performed in the places specifically designed for this purpose, either at the same level or at a different level, which are usually well signposted:
- Changes of direction at the same level:
- Changes of direction at a different level:
Prohibitions to change direction
The places where this maneuver is prohibited are:
- When it could be a danger or obstacle.
- On highways and freeways, except in the places enabled for this purpose.
- On one-way roads.
- In curves and changes of gradient with reduced visibility.
- At intersections with bicycle lanes.
- At intersections and in their vicinity, except when it is a traffic circle or traffic circle or when the roadway where there is priority of way at the intersection with a sign indicating it (green traffic light, any danger sign giving priority, etc.).
- At level crossings.
- At pedestrian crossings marked as such.
- In tunnels, track sections with the tunnel signal (S-5) and underpasses.
The signal that expressly prohibits the 180º turn is the following:
Of course the signs prohibiting turning left or right, imply the prohibition of change of direction in any case.
Change of direction
It is that maneuver that is made by turning left or right in order to take a different direction from the one you are on, or to access a different road leaving the road on which you are driving or to access another roadway on the same road.
Premises to carry out this maneuver properly:
- On a right turn, position yourself as close to the right edge of the lane or in the lane furthest to the right.
- When turning left, it is prohibited when there is no space, time or sufficient visibility, and, in any case, it is carried out in the leftmost lane or close to the left.
Rules for changing direction
Of course, the general rule is to always perform this maneuver without endangering anyone, taking into account the elements specifically enabled to make a change of direction (rackets, lay-bys, squares, traffic circles…), which must be used, even if there are no signs indicating it.
In urban and conventional areas these turns can be made when they are not specifically prohibited, as long as there are no guide marks at the intersection, when turning left you must always leave the imaginary center of the intersection to the left, passing on the right.
This maneuver must always be signaled with turn signals or hand signals.
Prohibitions on change of address
It is forbidden to make a change of direction in:
- Prohibited to change to the left on two-way carriageways when there is reduced visibility. Turning left is always more dangerous than turning right.
- Turning left is forbidden whenever there is a continuous line to the left of the traffic lane.
- It is, of course, forbidden to change direction in a forbidden direction or in places where traffic is restricted for the vehicle with which you are driving.
- Whenever there are specific signs prohibiting this maneuver.
- No left turn is allowed:
- Forbidden to turn right:
It is important to note that the sign R304 prohibiting the change of direction in “U”, does not imply the prohibition of change of direction to the left but on the contrary.