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 Dakota, 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 explicitly prohibited by signage, turning without first 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. The penalties for committing such violations typically involve a monetary fine and the addition of points to the driver's license, which can affect insurance rates and driving privileges. 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. Ultimately, a judge or jury will determine the driver's guilt or responsibility based on whether the prosecution has met its burden of proof. It's important to note that traffic laws can vary by municipality, so local ordinances should also be considered in addition to state statutes.