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 Virginia, making an illegal or improper turn is a traffic violation under state law. This includes executing a U-turn where it is prohibited by signage, turning without moving to the appropriate lane, and making turns where signs indicate they are not allowed. The penalties for such violations typically involve a monetary fine and the addition of demerit points to the driver's license. The number of points and the amount of the fine can vary based on the specific nature of the offense and the driver's record. Law enforcement officers have the discretion to issue citations for these violations, and prosecutors have the discretion to pursue charges. However, the final determination of guilt or responsibility lies with a judge or jury, who must decide if the prosecution has met its burden of proof. In Virginia, traffic violations are generally treated as civil infractions rather than criminal offenses, although repeated or serious violations can lead to more severe consequences, including criminal charges.