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 South Carolina, as in all states, there are specific laws that govern the legality of vehicle turns. Illegal or improper turns include executing a U-turn where it is prohibited by signage, turning without moving to the appropriate lane (far right for right turns, far left for left turns), and making turns where signs indicate such turns are not allowed. Violating these laws typically results in a fine and the addition of points to the driver's license. Enforcement of these laws is at the discretion of the police officer who may issue a citation, and the prosecutor who decides whether to pursue the case. If the case goes to court, it is then up to a 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 statutes that outline the rules for turns and associated penalties can be found in the South Carolina Code of Laws, particularly in the sections dealing with motor vehicles and traffic regulations.