California drivers are legally responsible for making U-turns safely before executing the turn. Unfortunately, there are negligent and reckless drivers everywhere. If you or your loved one in Los Angeles was seriously injured due to another driver’s negligent driving, you might have a valid claim for compensation.
The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group are prepared to handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. We will carefully investigate your claim for compensation to determine the value of your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Don’t hesitate to contact our personal injury attorneys to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.
What Makes U-Turns So Dangerous?
U-turns are among the most dangerous types of turns. During a U-turn, the driver turns into oncoming traffic and remains on the road until completing the turn. The oncoming driver may not have enough time to react to a vehicle attempting to make a U-turn safely. The vehicle making a U-turn may not accelerate fast enough to move with the traffic flow. As a result, U-turns can cause deadly rear-end accidents.
Leading Causes for U-Turn Accidents in Los Angeles
Making a U-turn can be legal in California, but that doesn’t mean it’s always safe to make a U-turn. One small mistake could result in a significant accident and severe injuries for everyone involved.
Drivers making U-turns may incur negligence when turning because they are trying to take a shortcut or beat traffic. They may be trying to disregard California U-turn laws. These dangerous maneuvers can lead to U-turn accidents caused by illegal U-turns, rear-end collisions, sideswipe accidents, “T-bone” accidents, and head-on collisions. Some of the most common causes of U-turn accidents include the following:
- Performing a U-turn from a complete stop
- Illegal U-turns at a location with posted “no U-turn” signs
- Failure to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic
- Making a U-turn in the wrong traffic lane
- Making a U-turn when visibility is poor
- Making a U-turn at an excessive speed
Are U-Turns Always Legal in California?
According to the California vehicle code, U-turns can be legally made in the following situations:
- Traffic lights or signs control any approaching traffic in a residential area
- In a residential area, if there are no other vehicles within 200 feet
- At an intersection with a green light or arrow to control the control of traffic, unless otherwise prohibited
- On highways where there is an opening provided for U-turn in the center divider
Before attempting a U-turn, drivers must have a clear view of at least 200 feet in both directions. They must have enough space to safely maneuver their vehicle without causing a collision. U-turns are also illegal when a driver attempts a U-turn at or on a:
- Railroad crossing
- One-way street
- Divided highway when there is a strip of turf, curb, or two sets of double yellow lines
Determining Who Is At Fault for a U-Turn Accident
In order to recover compensation for injuries caused by a U-turn accident, the victim needs to prove that the defendant is liable for his or her actions. Under California law, drivers are legally responsible for injuries caused by accidents resulting from their negligent driving. When pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, the victim must prove that the defendant failed to use reasonable care to prevent injury to others on the road. The plaintiff must also prove that the defendant’s negligence caused the accident that resulted in their injuries.
When drivers fail to use reasonable care when making a U-turn and cause an accident, victims can pursue compensation through a lawsuit. Determining liability can be challenging in U-turn accident cases. Establishing which driver had the right away can be important when proving fault in these accidents. Drivers who attempt au turn are legally required to yield the right away to the following:
- Pedestrians in the crosswalk
- Oncoming traffic
- Bicyclists in the bike lane
- Right-turning vehicles
If the driver who caused your injuries was attempting to make a U-turn and failed to adhere to these right-of-way laws, he or she will likely be considered liable for your injuries. Additionally, suppose the driver who caused the accident was engaging in another type of negligent behavior, such as texting or driving while intoxicated. In that case, they can be held liable for the injuries caused.
However, there are some instances in which the U-turning driver is not the liable party. In other cases, the U-turning driver may be only partially responsible for causing the accident. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group are prepared to carefully investigate your case and determine which parties are at fault so we can begin pursuing the full compensation you deserve.
U-Turn Accidents Involving Pedestrians
When a pedestrian attempts to cross the street when he or she has a “do not walk” sign, and a U-turn accident occurs, the pedestrian could be liable for the accident. The U-turning driver is expected to react in a way that would prevent a collision, but he or she may not have enough time to do so. When the pedestrian’s negligence causes an accident, the driver making a U-turn can pursue compensation from the pedestrian.
U-Turn Accidents Involving Bicyclists
Bicycle traffic laws are often not followed as closely as they should be. Some bicyclists ride through traffic lights when they should stop along with the rest of the traffic. When a driver attempts a U-turn legally and collides with a bicyclist, the bicyclist may be responsible for damages if he or she should have stopped at the red light.
Injured from a U-Turn Accident in Los Angeles? We’re Here to Help
If you’ve been injured in a Los Angeles-area U-turn accident, you will benefit from working with an experienced attorney. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group are prepared to advocate for the full and fair compensation you need and deserve. We will investigate your case and determine which party or parties are liable for your injuries. Contact Saeedian Law Group to schedule a free case evaluation and discuss your case with an experienced attorney.
