A U-turn is a relatively routine traffic maneuver drivers often make because they missed a turn or are unsure of where they are going. Despite how frequently U-turns occur, they can result in serious collisions that cause significant injuries.
In this blog, our Lafayette auto accident lawyers discusses who may be at fault for a U-turn accident, the type of evidence victims need to support their claim and compensation they may be able to seek. Additionally, we explain how you can prevent U-turn accidents.
Our attorneys can help you determine if you have a case during a free case review. If our firm decides that you have a case, we will not charge you any costs or fees unless we win compensation for your damages.
Are U-Turns Legal in Louisiana?
Generally, it is legal to make a U-turn when you have a green light or green arrow. The exception is when there is a sign that specifically prohibits U-turns.
However, drivers who are making a U-turn must yield to oncoming traffic and cars that are making a right turn. Failure to yield can result in a crash and the driver who fails to yield will likely be held liable.
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Types of U-Turn Collisions
There are a few common types of U-turn collisions that can result in significant injuries. If you were involved in any of the collisions listed below, you should seek out an experienced lawyer.
- Head-On Collisions: These happen when an oncoming vehicle hits the one making a U-turn. These are often severe due to the direct impact and the speed at which the impact occurs.
- Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone): This is when a vehicle that was heading straight hits the side of the vehicle making a U-turn. This can cause significant damage and injury due to the vulnerable side of the vehicle being impacted.
- Rear-End Collisions: Sometimes the trailing driver hits the U-turning vehicle. Even at a relatively slow speed, these collisions can result in whiplash.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Collisions: You need to watch for pedestrians and bicyclists when making a U-turn. They can be hard to see, and you might miss them because you are focused on looking at oncoming traffic.
Who May Be At-Fault for a U-turn Accident?
There are a few factors to consider when evaluating liability for a U-turn collision in Lafayette.
- Illegal U-turns: Drivers who make U-turns where it is prohibited are likely to be found at fault if a collision occurs.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians while making a U-turn are also likely to be found at fault.
- Negligent Driving: There are also cases where drivers cause a collision due to their reckless or distracted action.
There are some cases where multiple drivers may be at fault for a crash. For example, if a driver ran a red light and crashed into a vehicle making an illegal U-turn.
If you think the other driver is to blame, you may have legal options. Call our experienced law firm to review your potential next steps.
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What Type of Evidence Do I Need to Support My Claim?
U-turn crash victims must prove another driver caused the crash. You can do this with evidence establishing how and why the crash occurred. You also need evidence showing that your injuries happened in the crash.
Some examples of evidence for a U-turn crash case may include:
Police Report
A police report provides a detailed account of a car crash scene, including traffic citations issued to those involved, such as citations for speeding or failing to yield.
Having a police report can also make it harder for the insurance company to assert that the crash never happened. That is why crash victims should always call the police for assistance.
Witness Statements
Witnesses who have no connection to those involved in the crash can provide unbiased perspectives. This can help support your statements about the crash and possibly refute what the other driver said. Witness statements can also fill in gaps in what both parties said about what happened.
Photographic Evidence
Pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage and relevant road conditions can show who may be at-fault and further explain what took place.
Medical Records
These records help establish a clear link between your injuries and the car crash. Your medical records reveal your diagnosis, symptoms, treatment plan and what is happening with your recovery.
Seeking medical care soon after the collision is vital, as the dates of your medical care will be noted in your records.
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What Damages Can I Claim After a U-turn Accident?
Any collision can cause a variety of damages. The damages suffered in each collision will vary. Some crashes are more severe than others and result in long-term injuries. Other crashes may be less severe but can still have significant long-term consequences for victims.
U-turn crash damages often include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs related to emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work during recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages to compensate for physical pain, emotional distress and diminished quality of life.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement costs for damaged vehicles or personal belongings.
- Loss of Consortium: If a car crash impacts a victim’s relationship with their spouse, they may be able to seek compensation.
- Disability or Disfigurement: Victims with permanent injuries or visible scars can seek compensation for disability or disfigurement.
- And more
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a U-turn Accident?
In Louisiana, car crash victims have one year from the car accident date to file a claim. When the one-year window passes, you lose the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver.
This is just one reason why crash victims should promptly call a lawyer. You also need to remember that it takes time to gather evidence and build a case and you want to give your lawyer as much time as possible.
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent U-turn Collisions?
While it is impossible to prevent all collisions, you can lower your risk by taking some preventative measures every time you go out on the road:
Know Traffic Regulations on U-Turns
Familiarize yourself with U-turn laws and regulations in your area, especially on busy streets and intersections. Make sure you follow these laws when you make a U-turn or are attempting to turn or travel through an intersection as another driver makes a U-turn.
Exercise Caution
Always signal your intention to make a U-turn and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Checking your surroundings multiple times can help you avoid hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle.
Increase Awareness
Be vigilant of blind spots, especially when making U-turns in busy intersections or areas with limited visibility. Be on the lookout for vehicles that are turning in the same direction as you to avoid a collision.
Avoid Distractions
Focus solely on driving and avoid distractions like cellphones or adjusting in-car systems (air conditioning, radio, etc.) while behind the wheel.
Call Our Lafayette Office After a U-turn Collision
At Galloway Jefcoat, we are committed to helping crash victims in Lafayette, Louisiana get the compensation that they need to recover.
If you have any questions after a car crash, call our firm today. We can help you learn more about your legal options and potentially move forward with your case.
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