A rapid and unsignaled U-turn executed to reverse direction immediately, often skipping dedicated turning lanes or intersections. Drivers typically perform this maneuver when they realize they missed a turn or are heading the wrong way, swinging the steering wheel hard to whip the vehicle around. It frequently violates traffic laws and requires a tight turning radius.
Heard on the job
We just missed the shop entrance, so check your mirrors and flip a U-ey right here.
Insider tip
Performing this maneuver in a long-wheelbase vehicle often results in an awkward three-point turn blocking both lanes of traffic.
Also heard as
- flip a U