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 Massachusetts, drivers are required to adhere to laws governing turns on the road. Illegal or improper turns include executing a U-turn where it is explicitly prohibited by signage, failing to move to the appropriate lane before making a turn, and making turns where signs indicate they are not allowed. Violations of these laws typically result in fines and may also lead to points being added 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 on pursuing the charge. Ultimately, if the case goes to court, it is up to the judge or jury to determine whether the driver is guilty of the offense based on whether the prosecution has met its burden of proof. The specific penalties and procedures for contesting a citation can be found in the Massachusetts Driver's Manual and the state's General Laws.