U-Turn Car Accidents

U-Turn Car Accidents Lawyer

U-turn accidents can be relatively common in Los Angeles due to the high volume of traffic and the layout of many streets and intersections. U-turns can be convenient for drivers who need to change direction, but they can also be dangerous if not executed properly.

In Los Angeles and throughout California, U-turns are permitted under certain circumstances, but drivers must follow the rules and regulations related to U-turns to avoid causing an accident. If a driver makes an illegal U-turn, they may be found liable for a resulting car crash and any resulting injuries and property damage.

If a driver makes an illegal U-turn in violation of the Vehicle Code, and this maneuver causes a car accident, they may be found liable for the accident and any resulting injuries and property damage. In such a case, the injured party may be able to recover compensation for their damages by filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

To establish liability in a U-turn accident, it is recommended to consult with a licensed personal injury attorney who can help evaluate the circumstances of the accident and advise you on the best course of action to recover compensation for your damages.

Understanding Legal Vs. Illegal U-turns

In Los Angeles, U-turns are permitted in certain situations, but they are also prohibited in certain situations. Understanding the difference between legal and illegal U-turns is important to avoid causing a car accident and to determine fault in case of an accident.

Legal U-turns are those that are made in accordance with the California Vehicle Code. Some examples of legal U-turns include:

At intersections where U-turns are not prohibited by signs or traffic signals.
On two-way roads where U-turns are not prohibited by signs.
In residential areas where U-turns are not prohibited by signs.
From a left-turn lane where U-turns are not prohibited by signs.

On the other hand, illegal U-turns are those that are made in violation of the California Vehicle Code.

Examples of illegal U-turns include:

Making a U-turn in a business district where U-turns are prohibited by signs.
Making a U-turn on a curve or near the top of a hill where visibility is limited.
Making a U-turn on a divided highway where U-turns are prohibited by signs or markings.
Making a U-turn near an intersection, bridge, or railroad crossing where U-turns are prohibited by signs.

When Is a U-turn Illegal under Los Angeles Law?

Here is a deeper understanding of illegal U-turns according to the law.

In Los Angeles and throughout California, U-turns are illegal under certain circumstances. The California Vehicle Code outlines when U-turns are prohibited, including:

U-turns at intersections controlled by traffic signals: California Vehicle Code section 21451(a) prohibits U-turns at intersections controlled by traffic signals unless a sign indicates otherwise.
U-turns in business districts: California Vehicle Code section 22102 does not allow U-turns in business districts unless a sign indicates otherwise.
U-turns in residential districts: Section 22103 allows U-turns in residential districts, but drivers must exercise caution and only make a U-turn when it is safe to do so.
U-turns at or near fire station driveways: California Vehicle Code prohibits U-turns at or near fire station driveways unless a sign indicates otherwise.
U-turns at or near parking lots: The law prohibits U-turns at or near parking lots unless a sign indicates otherwise.
U-turns on California highways: California Vehicle Code section 22015 prohibits U-turns on highways except at an opening provided by a traffic officer or a traffic control device or at a location designated for such a maneuver by the Department of Transportation or local authorities.

It is important for drivers to be aware of these provisions and to follow them to avoid causing a car accident. If a driver makes an illegal U-turn in violation of these provisions and causes a car accident, they may be found liable for any resulting injuries or property damage.

In such a case, the injured party may be able to recover compensation for their damages by filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

Injured Due to an Illegal U-turn in Los Angeles?

If you have been injured by someone making an illegal U-turn in Los Angeles, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. Here’s what you should do:

Seek medical assistance: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Seek medical assistance as quickly as possible after the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately seen, and delaying medical treatment can make your injuries worse.
Report the accident: Contact the police and file a report of the accident. The police department will document the accident and collect evidence, which can be helpful in pursuing a personal injury claim.
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including the location of the U-turn and any damage to the vehicles involved. If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information.
Contact a personal injury attorney: Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. An attorney can investigate the accident, collect evidence, and contact and speak to the insurance companies on your behalf.
File an insurance claim or lawsuit: If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you may be able to recover compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

It’s important to note that California has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, which means you have a limited amount of time to file a claim. Therefore, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident to protect your legal rights and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

How Can the Pacific Attorney Group Help?

As a personal injury law firm based in Los Angeles, we at the Pacific Attorney Group can help you in several ways if you have been injured in an accident involving an illegal U-turn:

Legal representation: Our attorneys at the Pacific Attorney Group can provide legal representation if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. We can handle all aspects of your case, including investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court, if necessary.
Case evaluation: The Pacific Attorney Group can offer a free case evaluation to help you understand your legal options and determine whether you have a strong case. During the evaluation, our attorney will review the details of your accident, assess the strength of your case, and provide guidance on how to proceed.
Settlement negotiations: If the other driver’s insurance company offers you a settlement, our attorneys at the Pacific Attorney Group will review the offer and negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Medical referrals: The Pacific Attorney Group can provide referrals to medical providers who can treat your injuries.
Peace of mind: Finally, working with a personal injury attorney can provide peace of mind during a difficult time. You can focus on your recovery, knowing that your attorney is handling your case and working to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Our goal is to provide you with the best services to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and we will take you through every step of the case.