Question: I am seeing more and more of these “J-turns” in Minnesota. Can you explain those to people who might not be familiar? Thank you.

  Answer: J-turns are used to decrease fatalities and injuries caused by broadside crashes on four-lane divided highways.

  At a J-turn, drivers on the side street approaching the divided highway always make a right turn. To cross the highway or make a left turn from the side street:

1. Come to a complete stop.

2. Turn right onto the highway.

3. Enter the designated left-turn lane that leads to the median opening and complete a U-turn.

  When making the right turn, you can cross both lanes and move into the left-turn lane in one motion when it is safe to do so. This minimizes the time spent in the through lanes of the divided highway. When  completing the U-turn, you must yield to oncoming traffic and stop if necessary, before entering the through lanes of the divided highway.