All states have laws that prohibit drivers from making an illegal or improper turn. Common examples of illegal or improper turns are:

• U-turns (when there is a No U-Turn sign)

• Making a right or left turn without first moving to the far right or left lane

• Making a right or left turn when there is a sign at the intersection that prohibits such turns (No Right Turn).

The penalty for making an illegal or improper turn usually includes a fine and points on your driver’s license.

As with many traffic violations, the officer issuing the citation and the prosecutor have significant discretion in determining whether there was a violation of a traffic law and whether the violation constitutes a certain offense, as defined by the state legislature in the traffic code or in a municipal ordinance.

This discretion to issue a ticket or citation and prosecute the charge against the driver is balanced by the discretion of the jury or judge in determining whether the prosecution met its burden of proof sufficient to convict the driver (for a criminal offense) or find the driver responsible (for a civil infraction, violation, or offense).

In New Hampshire, as in all states, there are specific laws that govern the legality of vehicle turns. New Hampshire state statutes outline the rules for making proper turns, and these rules include prohibitions against U-turns where indicated by signage, requirements to move into the appropriate lane before making a turn, and adherence to any posted signs that restrict turns at an intersection. Violating these rules can result in penalties such as fines and points being added to the driver's license. The enforcement of these laws is subject to the discretion of the police officer who may issue a citation, and the prosecutor who decides on the charges. If a case goes to court, it is then up to the judge or jury to determine if the prosecution has met its burden of proof to convict the driver of a criminal offense or find them responsible for a civil infraction. The specific penalties and processes for handling illegal or improper turn violations are detailed in the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) and local municipal ordinances.