Massachusetts Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test

What should you do when there is not enough room for a U-turn?

1. Make a left turn

2. Make a 3 point turn

3. Continue straight

4. Perform a K-turn

The correct answer is: Make a 3 point turn

When there is not enough room for a U-turn, opting for a three-point turn is the appropriate approach. A three-point turn allows drivers to change the direction of their vehicle within a limited space safely. This technique involves turning the vehicle to one side, pulling forward to align the front of the car with the other side of the road, and then adjusting to face in the opposite direction. There may be situations where the roadway is narrow or obstructed, making a classical U-turn impractical. A three-point turn is useful in these scenarios, as it requires less room and can be executed without putting the vehicle at undue risk or causing significant disturbance to traffic. Alternative methods, such as a left turn (which may lead into another street but not achieve the desired direction change) or continuing straight (which means not addressing the need to turn at all), may not resolve the issue of needing to change direction effectively. Performing a K-turn is essentially a synonym for a three-point turn and can imply the same maneuver, but the specific term "three-point turn" is more widely accepted in driving regulations and guidance for adjusting direction in confined spaces.