Do you need advice about how to dispute an illegal U-turn ticket?
If you’ve received one, don’t panic. You have options.
Disputing an illegal U-turn ticket alone can be stressful. A Tulare County traffic attorney can handle the legal process for you.
They understand California traffic laws and court procedures in Visalia and Porterville Courthouse.
Understanding Illegal U-Turns in California
California has strict rules about when and where U-turns are allowed.
According to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22100.5, Turning and Stopping and Turning Signals:
“No driver shall make a U-turn at an intersection controlled by official traffic signals except as provided in Section 21451, and then only from the far lefthand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel from which the turn is commenced. No driver shall make a U-turn at an intersection controlled by official traffic control devices except from the far lefthand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel from which the turn is commenced.”
Here’s when making a U-turn is illegal:
Crossing railroad tracks to complete the U-turn.
On divided highways with no openings or where signs prohibit it.
Onto a one-way street in the wrong direction.
In business districts without intersections or legal openings.
At intersections where traffic is within 200 feet or visibility is blocked.
These laws are strictly enforced in Tulare County, CA. Violations carry fines and negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points, which could raise the premium on your auto insurance significantly.
How an Illegal U-Turn Ticket Affects You
An illegal U-turn ticket can hurt your driving record and insurance rates. A conviction could mean:
A negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) point.
Higher insurance premiums for up to three years.
Potential civil liability if an accident happened.
Mistakes happen, even with law enforcement officers (LEOs).
A traffic attorney knows how to challenge errors and reduce penalties. They spend a lot of their working hours in traffic court, listening to judges and understanding how to present a case for dismissal.
Dispute an Illegal U-Turn Ticket: Your Legal Options
If you need to dispute an illegal U-turn ticket, here’s what you need to know.
The burden of proof falls on the State. If the evidence is unclear or the officer made an error, you may have a solid defense.
A Tulare County traffic attorney can review your case, subpoena officer records, and argue for a reduced fine—or even a dismissal.
Why You Need a Tulare County Traffic Attorney
Disputing an illegal U-turn ticket alone can be stressful.
A Tulare County traffic attorney can handle the legal process for you. They understand California traffic laws and court procedures in Visalia and Porterville Courthouse.
Their courtroom experience could mean a lower fine, fewer or no points, or a dismissed ticket.
Don’t just pay the fine without exploring your options. Call a traffic attorney today and fight your ticket the right way.
Contact Bigger & Harman For Advice About How to Dispute an Illegal U-Turn Ticket in Tulare County, CA
If you need help to dispute an illegal U-turn ticket in Porterville or Visalia Courthouse in Tulare County, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our online contact form.
References:
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
CA VC Section 22100.5, Turning and Stopping and Turning Signals.