Certain manoeuvres (turns) are banned on some of our roads. Ignoring these bans can be very dangerous and could result in an accident.
A banned turn occurs when drivers ignore signs giving instructions as to a direction they must or must not take. Enforcement of banned turns helps to manage how traffic uses the road and makes it safer for pedestrians and other drivers.
Recognising a banned turn sign
These signs are listed in the Highway Code, which you may wish to consult. They are either signs with:
- A white arrow on a blue background showing you the direction you must take, or
- A red outer circle with a red line showing you the direction you must not take
Signage
Straight ahead only: You must continue ahead only. You must not turn left, right or make a U turn. |
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Left turn only: You must turn left at the junction ahead. You must not turn right, go straight ahead or make a U turn. |
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Right turn only: You must turn right at the junction ahead. You must not turn left, go straight ahead or make a U turn. |
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Turn left: You must turn left. You must not turn right, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
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Right turn: You must turn right. You must not turn left, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
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Make a right hand turn
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Make a left hand turn |
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Make a U-turn. |
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Top tips to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)
We issue PCNs for a failure to comply with any of these road signs.
Banned turn signs can be prior to a junction, at the junction or attached to traffic lights. The best way to avoid receiving a PCN is to fully familiarise yourself with all road traffic signs in the Highway Code and look out for the above signs at all times. Sometimes some class of vehicles, for example buses, can make an otherwise banned turn and these vehicles will always be shown on the regulatory signs.