Final answer:
The statement is false; U-turns are not always legal and are regulated by traffic laws that vary by location.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a U-turn is legal at any time as long as you scan for pedestrians and other vehicles is FALSE. U-turns are subject to state and local traffic laws, which often specify the locations and conditions under which a U-turn may be made legally. It's important to be aware of the rules in your particular area.
Let's consider a situation where adhering strictly to traffic laws could be questioned based on moral grounds. For example, should you stop at a red traffic light if you are transporting a pregnant woman to the hospital who is on the verge of delivery?
While some might argue that the utility gained from breaking the law in this specific case (e.g., getting to the hospital quickly at 4 am when no other vehicles are present on the road) justifies the action, this doesn't make it legally permissible, and it certainly doesn't create a general rule to follow.
Another critical aspect concerning the legality and safety of road maneuvers relates to pedestrian safety. At intersections near campuses where students and others frequently cross, traffic signals help regulate vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Such controls are imperative for ensuring that pedestrians can cross safely, without having to navigate through moving vehicles.