Making a U-turn on a quiet street with no other vehicles or pedestrians nearby might seem like a low-risk maneuver, but a severe accident can still happen. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles making right turns at crosswalks without exception.
U-turn crashes happen for many reasons, including the following:
- Poor visibility: Fog and rain can make it harder to see other vehicles.
- Nighttime: It is also harder to make safe U-turns in the dark.
- Reckless and negligent driving: Judgment and reaction time can be impaired by speeding, distractions like texting and driving, and being under the influence.
- Heavy traffic: It is not unusual to see illegal U-turns during heavy traffic.
Who Is Responsible for a U-Turn Accident?
In addition to facing civil liability for their illegal actions, drivers who make unsafe U-turns can also receive misdemeanor traffic violations, depending on state laws. Every traffic offense also has a point value that can be added to a driving record.
Drivers who commit illegal U-Turns are generally considered responsible for accidents. However, every case is different, and you will need evidence to show that someone acted negligently or illegally. Examples of evidence include eyewitness accounts and photos/videos taken at the accident scene.
If you choose to take legal action to receive compensation for your injuries and property damage, the driver may argue that the U-turn was not illegal or that you were more negligent. For this reason, it is essential to have a lawyer.
When Can I Make a U-Turn?
Drivers should always be careful when making a U-turn. They should not interfere with oncoming traffic or vehicles from the other way. There also needs to be enough time to complete the move, including making the U-turn and getting back up to speed to enter the roadway.
U-turns are inherently dangerous because the vehicle gets turned 180 degrees with the potential for oncoming cars and pedestrians. If you need to make a U-turn, use your left turn signal, come to a stop, and yield to traffic. Proceed carefully into the right lane, heading in the opposite direction when both ways are clear.
Our Towson Personal Injury Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Represent Drivers Involved in U-Turn Accidents
Seeking compensation for a U-turn accident can be challenging, but our Towson personal injury lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC can fight to protect your rights. Call us at 443-589-0150 or complete our online form for more information and to schedule a free consultation. Located in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland, we serve clients in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Bentley Springs, Columbia, Freeland, Hereford, Hampton, Westminster, Essex, Monkton, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, Phoenix, Pikesville, White Hall, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County.
