Reduced Conflict U-Turn (RCUT) Intersection

An RCUT is an intersection design that reduces crashes by changing how minor road traffic crosses or turns left at a major road reducing the potential conflict with other vehicles. At an RCUT, minor road traffic must turn right. Left turn and through movements from the minor road are accomplished through the use of a downstream U-turn. All movements (left, though, and right) are allowed from the major road.

An RCUT is sometimes also referred to as a J-Turn or a Superstreet.

How Does An RCUT Work?

PATH A

Drivers who would cross the main highway once reaching a conventional intersection must now turn right first, make a U-turn at the designated location and then turn right onto the adjoining side street at the RCUT intersection.

PATH B

Drivers who would turn left from the minor road at a conventional intersection must now turn right instead; then make a U-turn at the designated location.

Benefits

Reduce the number and severity of vehicle-to-vehicle conflict points by approx. 50% in comparison to conventional intersections.
Supports a community’s pedestrian and bicycle goals as provisions for walking and biking can shape the RCUT design.
Reduces delay and congestion for through traffic on a major road.
Reduces queuing on the minor road because vehicles do not have to wait for gaps in traffic traveling in two directions.
Installing RCUT intersections is accomplished in much shorter timeframes than traditional intersections that require more extensive roadwork, greatly reducing cost.

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