Who is at Fault in a U-Turn Accident?

Understanding Liability in a U-Turn Accident

U-turn car accidents can be severe and include head-on collisions with tremendous speed, often resulting in severe damage and traumatic injuries. Determining fault in such an accident can be complicated. Having an experienced car accident lawyer from Varghese Summersett is crucial to protecting your rights and interest.

Our team comprises dedicated personal injury attorneys here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

In this post, we’ll explain the common causes of U-turn accidents in Texas, the types of injuries and compensation associated with victims, and how our Fort Worth accident lawyers can help you receive the proper compensation.

Who is at fault in a U-Turn Accident?

Determining fault in a U-turn accident depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident, as well as local traffic laws. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Illegal U-turn

If a driver makes an illegal U-turn, they are likely at fault for any resulting accident. This includes making a U-turn where signs prohibit it, or if it’s against local traffic laws.

Right-of-way

Drivers making a U-turn must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. If a driver fails to do so and causes an accident, they may be considered at fault.

Proper signaling

If a driver does not signal their intention to make a U-turn, they could be found at fault for any accidents that occur as a result.

U-turn location

If a driver makes a U-turn at an unsafe location or in an unsafe manner, they may be considered at fault.

Most Common Causes of U-turn Accidents in Texas

U-turn accidents occur for various reasons, including:

Misjudging the distance and speed of oncoming traffic

Drivers may underestimate the speed of oncoming vehicles or overestimate the distance between their car and the approaching vehicles, leading to accidents when they attempt a U-turn.

Making a U-turn in a prohibited area

Ignoring signs or traffic signals that prohibit U-turns can result in accidents, as these restrictions often exist due to limited visibility, heavy traffic, or other hazards.

Failing to signal before making a U-turn

Not using the appropriate turn signal before making a U-turn can lead to accidents, as other drivers and pedestrians may be unaware of the driver’s intention to change direction.

Poor visibility due to weather or an obstructed view

Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, can reduce visibility and make it difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic or pedestrians when attempting a U-turn. Obstructions, such as parked vehicles or large bushes, can limit visibility and increase the risk of accidents.

Failing to yield the right-of-way

Drivers must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before making a U-turn. Failing to do so can result in collisions with vehicles with the right-of-way.

Impatience or aggressive driving

Some drivers may become impatient or engage in aggressive driving behaviors, such as making sudden or unsafe U-turns, increasing the risk of accidents.

Distracted driving

Drivers not paying full attention to the road due to texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions may not notice oncoming traffic or pedestrians when attempting a U-turn, leading to accidents.

Inadequate or confusing road signage

Poorly placed or unclear road signs can make it difficult for drivers to determine whether a U-turn is permitted in a specific location, potentially resulting in accidents.

What Are Illegal U-turns in Texas?

In Texas, illegal U-turns are generally those made:

• Where signs expressly prohibit U-turns
• Within an intersection controlled by a traffic signal
• On a curve or near the crest of a hill with limited visibility

What Are Legal U-turns in Texas?

Legal U-turns in Texas include those made:

• At intersections without traffic signals, provided there is clear visibility of oncoming traffic
• Where signs do not expressly prohibit U-turns

Legal Consequences of U-turn Accidents

Determining liability in a U-turn accident depends on several factors, such as whether the U-turn was legal or illegal and if negligence played a role. Our accident lawyers will investigate your case and help prove fault to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Varghese Summersett’s personal injury lawyers will use a comprehensive approach to prove fault and liability in a U-turn accident by employing the following strategies:

Gathering evidence

Our u-turn accident lawyers will collect crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and photographs of the accident scene, to establish the circumstances leading up to the accident and the parties involved.

Analyzing traffic laws and regulations

Our lawyers will closely examine Texas traffic laws and regulations to determine whether the at-fault party violated any rules, which can help establish liability.

Reconstructing the accident

In some cases, our car accident lawyer may work with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the events leading up to the collision. This process can help determine the cause of the accident and identify the at-fault party.

Assessing vehicle damage

By examining the damage sustained by the involved vehicles, our team will gain insights into the accident’s dynamics, such as the point of impact and the force of the collision, which can help prove fault.

Identifying negligence

We’ll look for evidence of negligence, such as distracted driving, failing to yield the right-of-way, or making an illegal U-turn, which can be used to establish the at-fault party’s liability.

Evaluating medical records and reports

Our Fort Worth U-turn accident lawyers will review medical records and reports to understand the extent of the injuries sustained in the accident and the potential long-term effects. This information can be crucial in proving liability and determining the compensation that the victim deserves.

Negotiating with insurance companies

We’ll use the gathered evidence and our experience in personal injury law to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, seeking a fair settlement that reflects the true extent of your losses and injuries.

Taking the case to trial if necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, our Fort Worth U-turn accident lawyers are prepared to take the case to trial, presenting the evidence and advocating for your best interests before a judge and jury.

Varghese Summersett’s personal injury lawyers will work diligently to prove fault and liability in your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Common U-turn Accident Injuries

U-turn accidents can result in various injuries, depending on the collision’s severity and circumstances. Some of the most common injuries sustained in U-turn accidents include:

Head injuries: These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Head injuries can occur when a person’s head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, windows, or other objects within the vehicle during the collision.

Neck injuries: Whiplash is a common neck injury resulting from sudden back-and-forth head movement during a collision. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the neck. More severe neck injuries may involve cervical spine or spinal cord damage.

Chest injuries: The force of impact in a U-turn accident can cause chest injuries, such as broken ribs, internal organ damage, or internal bleeding. These injuries can result from the body’s collision with the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt.

Back and spinal cord injuries: U-turn accidents can cause back and spinal cord injuries, ranging from strains and sprains to herniated discs or even paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can be particularly severe and life-altering, potentially leading to permanent disability.

Abdominal and pelvic injuries: The impact of a U-turn accident can cause damage to the abdominal and pelvic regions, leading to injuries like internal bleeding, organ damage, or pelvic fractures.

Extremity injuries: Arms, legs, hands, and feet can be injured in a U-turn accident. Injuries may include fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, and lacerations or contusions.

Facial injuries: U-turn accidents can cause facial injuries, such as lacerations, bruises, fractures, or dental damage, due to the impact of airbags, windows, or other objects within the vehicle.

Psychological injuries: Apart from physical injuries, victims of U-turn accidents may experience psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, due to the emotional impact of the accident.

The severity and type of injuries sustained in a U-turn accident depend on various factors, including the speed and size of the vehicles involved, the use of safety equipment, and the specific dynamics of the crash. Victims should seek prompt medical attention after an accident to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of their injuries.

Compensation for U-turn Car Accidents

Victims of U-turn accidents may be eligible for various types of compensation to cover their losses and damages. The most common types of compensation include:

Medical expenses: This compensation covers the costs of medical treatment, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any other necessary medical care related to the accident injuries.

Lost wages: If a victim cannot work due to their injuries, they may be compensated for their lost income during their recovery period. This includes wages, bonuses, commissions, and any other employment-related benefits.

Loss of earning capacity: If a victim’s injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects their ability to work or earn a living, they may be entitled to compensation for their reduced earning capacity.

Pain and suffering: This compensation accounts for the physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional distress a victim experiences due to their injuries. Pain and suffering compensation can vary significantly, depending on the injuries’ severity and impact on the victim’s quality of life.

Disfigurement and scarring: Victims may be compensated for any permanent disfigurement or scarring caused by their injuries, such as burns, lacerations, or amputations.

Loss of consortium: In some cases, the spouse of an injured victim may be eligible for compensation due to the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from the victim’s injuries.

Property damage: Compensation for property damage covers the cost of repairing or replacing a victim’s vehicle or other personal property damaged in the accident.

Punitive damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless, malicious, or negligent, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are not awarded in every case and are more common in situations involving extreme negligence or intentional harm.

The specific types and amounts of compensation awarded to a victim will depend on the unique circumstances of their case, the severity of their injuries, and the extent of their losses. Working with our experienced Fort Worth U-turn accident lawyers at Varghese Summersett will help ensure that you receive the maximum compensation they deserve for your injuries and damages.

Texas U-turn Laws and Regulations

Texas Transportation Code Section 545.102 outlines the requirements for legal U-turns. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to avoid potential accidents and legal consequences.

The law prohibits U-turns if your vehicle is not visible within 500 feet of approaching traffic. U-turns are legal everywhere else if no sign or local ordinance outlaws it. Many Texas towns limit U-turns in certain areas, including traffic light intersections and business districts or

At traffic lights, U-turns are illegal unless you have a green or yellow light, and the 500-foot rule still applies. A driver making a U-turn must always yield to oncoming traffic.

Tips to Avoid U-turn Car Accidents

Be aware of the following tips and strategies to help prevent U-turn accidents:

Check for posted signs

Always look for signs that indicate whether U-turns are permitted or prohibited in a specific location.

Use turn signals

Always use your turn signal well in advance when planning to make a U-turn to communicate your intention to other drivers and pedestrians.

Check traffic and visibility

Before initiating a U-turn, ensure you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and pedestrians and enough space and time to complete the turn safely.

Yield to oncoming traffic

Remember to yield the right-of-way to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians before making a U-turn.

Avoid U-turns on curves or hills

Refrain from making U-turns on curves or near the crest of a hill, as these locations typically have limited visibility.

Stay focused

Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone, eating, or engaging in other activities that may divert your attention from the road.

Obey traffic signals: Follow all traffic signals and laws, including those regulating U-turns, to ensure safe driving practices.

Practice defensive driving: Be aware of the actions of other drivers and anticipate potential hazards. You can significantly reduce the risk of U-turn accidents by staying alert and being prepared for unexpected situations.

By following these guidelines and being aware of the common causes of U-turn accidents, drivers can take proactive measures to reduce the risk of collisions and ensure a safer driving experience for all road users.

How Our Fort Worth U-turn Accident Lawyer Can Help

Case evaluation and investigation: Our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys will evaluate your case and thoroughly investigate the facts to determine the best course of action.

Negotiating with insurance companies: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation from insurance companies.

Taking your case to trial if necessary: If negotiations fail, our attorneys are not afraid to take your case to trial by jury to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Varghese Summersett for a Consultation

If you or a family member has been injured in a U-turn accident, contact Varghese Summersett’s Fort Worth U-turn accident lawyers promptly. Our team of personal injury attorneys will review the facts of your case during our initial consultation and advise you on how best to proceed with a claim. Our personal injury attorneys work on contingency fee agreements. That means we only get paid if your claim is successful.

To set up a complimentary consultation, call us at 817-207-4878 or contact us online.

FAQ: U-Turn Accidents in Texas: What You Need To Know