Legal Question in Traffic Law in New Jersey

Improper U-Turn

I was given a ticket for making an Improper U-Turn in Cranford. The Cop told me that it is illegal in NJ to make U-Turns. However, I found that the law (39:4-125) states:

Improper U turn Turning on curve, grade or place where view obstructed or State highway marked with ''no U turn'' sign Turning on curve, grade or place where view obstructed or State highway marked with ''no U turn'' sign. The driver of a vehicle shall not turn such vehicle around so as to proceed in the opposite direction upon any curve or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade or at any place upon a highway as defined in R.S. 39:1-1 where the view of such vehicle is obstructed within a distance of five hundred feet along the highway in either direction; and no such vehicle shall be turned around so as to proceed in the opposite direction on a highway which shall be conspicuously marked with signs stating ''no U turn''.

So this would mean that it is legal in places where U-Turn signs are not posted and where there is no traffice within 500 feet of the car making the U-Turn ???

Thank You


Asked on 1/26/05, 12:00 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Gary Moore Gary Moore Attorney At Law

Re: Improper U-Turn

I think that you have a good grasp of the applicable law.

Gary Moore, Esquire

Hackensack, New Jersey

800 273 7933

www.garymooreattorneyatlaw.com

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Answered on 1/26/05, 12:34 am
Scott Diamond DIAMONDLAWYER

Re: Improper U-Turn

there has to be a sign posted for it to be illegal. Gop get them. You are going to have to take pictures!

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Answered on 1/26/05, 6:52 am
Ronald Aronds Law Office of Ronald Aronds, LLC

Re: Improper U-Turn

Technically speaking you may be right, but in order to prevail at trial on such a defense you have to be able to prove to the judge that there was no other traffic on the road within 500 feet of where you made the U-Turn and also that there was no "No U-Turn" sign on the road where you got stopped. This would be done through testimony and cross examination of the officer who gave you the ticket. My office is across the parking lot from the Cranford Municipal Court so I represent clients in that court all the time. I can tell you that the judge there, Judge Bell, is strict, but also fair, so with the proper presentation of your argument at trial you may be able to prevail. I am an attorney who has handled many cases similar to yours in various courts throughout New Jersey in the past. Please call me at 908-272-0111 to discuss your case further. There is never any charge for simply discussing a case with me. Thank you. Sincerely yours, -Ronald Aronds, Esq.-

www.njworkerscompensationlaw.com

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Answered on 1/26/05, 10:27 am


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