Dallas U-Turn Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been in a U-turn car accident, chances are you’re probably facing mounting medical bills, significant property damage, injuries, and pain. You need a Dallas U-turn car accident lawyer who can truly help.
Allbee Law Firm’s car accident lawyers can protect your rights and help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. We have successfully represented many car accident victims in Dallas and throughout the state of Texas.
Our car accident lawyers know the rules, the laws, and the best way to approach these cases to get you the desired results. We’re here to help you, just like we have helped many others in similar situations. Contact us today at (972) 848-4848 to get the help you need.
Table of Contents
Are U-Turns Legal in Texas?
Yes, U-turns are generally legal in Texas, but there are certain conditions and restrictions to keep in mind:
Intersections
You can legally make a U-turn at an intersection unless there’s a sign specifically prohibiting it. Additionally, you must always yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Even if you have a solid green light, ensure the path is clear and safe to proceed.
Between Intersections
U-turns between intersections are typically allowed unless a “No U-turn” sign is posted or the maneuver cannot be completed safely. Remember that the U-turn should not interfere with other traffic and should be made without creating a hazard.
On Highways
On divided highways or roads with a median, you must make U-turns only from the left lane at an official opening in the median. This positioning is vital for ensuring the U-turn can be made safely without interfering with other traffic.
School Zones
U-turns are generally not allowed in school zones during operational hours. These are usually the hours when children are arriving at or leaving school. When you see flashing school zone signs, it indicates that the school zone is active, and making a U-turn is prohibited. The flashing lights are used to attract drivers’ attention and notify them to follow the school zone-specific traffic rules, including the restriction on U-turns.
Business Districts
U-turns in business districts must be made at an intersection, and only if the turn can be made safely without interfering with other traffic.
Yielding To Traffic
While U-turns are permitted in many situations, drivers must ensure they maneuver legally and safely, observe all posted signs and signals, and consider traffic conditions and road layout. Failure to adhere to these rules and yield to oncoming traffic can lead to accidents, and the driver making the illegal U-turn may be held liable for any resulting damages or injuries.
What Should I Do If I’m Being Blamed In A U-Turn Accident?
If you are blamed for a U-turn car accident, remember you are not without options. Texas follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that more than one party can share the blame for a car accident.
Under the Texas comparative negligence rule, the compensation you can receive will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you would not be entitled to recover any compensation. That’s why proving your degree of fault is as low as possible, or nonexistent, is critical. Acting promptly to protect your rights and present a strong defense for your case is essential.
Don’t Admit Fault
Refrain from making any statements or admissions of guilt at the accident scene. Any such admission can later be used against you in legal proceedings or by the insurance company.
Collect Evidence
Gather as much information as you can from the accident scene. Photos, videos, and witness statements can be invaluable in defending your case.
Contact an Experienced Dallas Car Accident Lawyer
Engaging a Dallas car accident lawyer as soon as possible is essential. We can help investigate the accident, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your best interests throughout the legal process.
Who Is Responsible For A U-Turn Accident?
Determining who is responsible for a U-turn accident depends on various factors, including the actions of the drivers involved and the specific U-turn regulations in the area where the accident occurred.
The Driver Making the U-Turn
Generally, the driver making the U-turn is responsible for ensuring that the path is clear and safe to make the turn. The driver must yield to oncoming traffic and only proceed when they can do so safely.
The Oncoming Driver
An oncoming driver is responsible for driving at a safe speed and being alert for other vehicles on the road. If the oncoming driver is speeding, distracted, or driving recklessly, they may be found partially or fully at fault for the accident, even if the other driver was making a U-turn.
Do You Have Questions For A U-Turn Car Accident Attorney?
How Can A Dallas Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?
U-turn car accidents in Dallas are far from straightforward, but Allbee Law Firm’s Dallas car accident attorneys can help make the process clearer and simpler for you. We know the laws and rules related to Dallas U-turn car accidents, and we’ll use this knowledge to help prove your case. With us on your team, you can get the essential support and legal expertise to handle your car accident case effectively.
Free Consultation
After a Dallas car accident, securing a free case review with Allbee Law Firm should be your first step toward finding clarity and support. During the free consultation, we can review the details of your accident, providing initial insights into your legal options and potential strategies for pursuing compensation for your injuries and damages. This no-cost meeting allows you to understand the potential paths forward for your case without financial commitment. You’ll gain valuable information and perspective, helping you make informed decisions as you proceed with your U-turn car accident case.
Investigation To Prove Who’s Responsible
A key element in a U-turn car accident case is proving who is responsible for the accident. Our personal injury law firm will conduct a detailed investigation into the accident, gathering essential evidence such as traffic camera footage, eyewitness statements, and police reports. This evidence can help establish the other driver’s fault in the accident, providing a strong foundation for your claim and ensuring you can pursue the total compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Negotiation
Negotiating with the insurance company is essential in seeking compensation for your damages and injuries. Insurance companies often aim to minimize the payouts in accident claims, but having an experienced car accident lawyer from Allbee Law Firm by your side ensures your rights are defended.
We will work to present a solid case backed by evidence, making sure insurance companies cannot undervalue your claim. This aggressive representation in negotiations is critical in ensuring you secure the fair and full compensation you are entitled to, without the stress and uncertainty of dealing with insurance companies alone.
Trial Representation
Allbee Law Firm prepares each case as if they will go to court. If your U-turn car accident case goes to trial, we are prepared, and we will present all the collected evidence, argue your case effectively, and work to prove the other party’s fault in the accident. We will handle all legal aspects, ensuring all court procedures and timelines are followed meticulously.
We aim to secure the best outcome for you, whether that’s a favorable verdict or a fair settlement for your injuries and damages. With Allbee Law Firm’s assistance, you can go through the trial process confidently, knowing your case is in knowledgeable and experienced hands.
Dallas U-Turn Car Accident Attorney FAQs
What Are The Most Common Causes of U-Turn Car Accidents?
U-turn car accidents in Dallas can occur for various reasons, many of which involve errors or negligence by drivers.
Illegal U-Turns:
Accidents can happen when drivers make illegal U-turns in areas where they are prohibited, such as at certain intersections, highways, or school zones.
Failure to Yield:
Drivers making a U-turn must yield to oncoming traffic. Failure to do so can lead to collisions with oncoming vehicles.
Obstructed View:
Drivers might not see oncoming traffic due to obstructions, leading to accidents when they make a U-turn.
Misjudgment of Oncoming Traffic:
Drivers may misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles, causing accidents when they make U-turns.
Distracted Driving:
Both the driver making the U-turn and oncoming drivers can contribute to accidents if they are distracted and not paying full attention to the road.
Impaired Driving:
Accidents can occur when drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs make U-turns without proper caution.
Inadequate Signaling:
Failing to use turn signals before making a U-turn can lead to accidents, as other drivers may not know the driver’s intentions to turn.
What Injuries Are Caused By U-Turn Car Accidents?
U-turn car accidents can lead to various injuries, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the specifics of the car wreck, such as the speed and size of the involved vehicles.
Whiplash:
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, occurring when the head and neck are suddenly and forcefully thrown back and forth. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and other complications.
Broken Bones:
The impact of a collision during a U-turn can cause fractures in any part of the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and more.
Concussions or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):
A strong impact can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, potentially leading to a concussion or more severe brain injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries:
U-turn accidents can damage the spine, potentially causing paralysis or other long-term mobility issues.
Internal Injuries:
The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to internal organs, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Cuts and Abrasions:
Broken glass or metal can cause cuts, bruises, and abrasions during a U-turn accident.
Burns:
In cases where a collision leads to a fire, occupants can suffer burns of varying degrees.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma:
Beyond physical injuries, car accident victims may experience significant emotional or psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety.
What is the Penalty for Illegal U-Turns?
In Dallas, Texas, making an illegal U-turn can result in a traffic citation, and penalties may include fines and points on your driving record. The specific amount of the fine can vary, but generally range from $100 to $200.
In addition to fines:
Points on Your License:
Illegal U-turns can add points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to additional fines and potentially getting a driver’s license suspended.
Increased Insurance Premiums:
Traffic violations like illegal U-turns can cause your auto insurance premiums to increase, costing you more money over time.
Driver’s Education Courses:
Individuals cited for illegal U-turns may be required to complete a driver’s education or defensive driving course.
Court Appearance:
Depending on the circumstances, you may be required to make a court appearance for an illegal U-turn violation, particularly if it led to an accident or other infractions.
What Evidence Do I Need To Hold the Other Driver Responsible for A U-Turn Car Accident?
Gathering comprehensive and convincing evidence is crucial to hold the other driver responsible for a U-turn car accident. Here is a list of evidence that can substantiate your personal injury claim:
Photographs/Videos:
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, damage to the cars, the road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries you have sustained.
Police Report:
Obtain a copy of the police report. It provides an official record of the accident and may include details about the other driver’s fault, traffic law violations, and statements from drivers and witnesses.
Witness Statements:
Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their accounts can provide insight into the accident and who was at fault.
Medical Records:
Secure all medical documentation related to your injuries from the accident. These records can prove the extent and severity of your injuries and link them to the accident.
Expert Testimonies:
In some cases, testimonies from accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals can strengthen your case by providing specialized insights into the accident dynamics or your injuries.
Traffic Camera Footage:
If available, obtain footage from traffic or security cameras near the accident scene that captured the incident.
Vehicle Damage Assessments:
Obtain detailed reports from auto repair shops regarding the damage to your vehicle, which can help establish the dynamics of the accident.
What If The Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
If the at-fault driver in a U-turn accident is uninsured or underinsured, it can complicate obtaining compensation for your damages and injuries. However, there are still avenues you can explore:
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Check your own insurance policy to see if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This type of coverage is designed to protect you financially in the event of an accident with a driver who does not have adequate insurance. Your insurance company can compensate you for your damages up to the limit of your UM/UIM policy.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
You may file a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver. Remember that collecting compensation this way is challenging, especially if the driver lacks the financial resources to pay.
MedPay or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
If you have Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you can use it to cover medical expenses resulting from the U-turn crash regardless of who is at fault.
Collisions Coverage
If you have collision coverage, it can pay for repairs to your vehicle regardless of fault, although you will have to pay the deductible.
Schedule A Free Case Evaluation With An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you’ve been involved in a U-turn car accident, don’t wait to seek the help you deserve. Your rights and compensation shouldn’t be compromised. Reach out to Allbee Law Firm today to discuss your case. Get professional guidance, a thorough investigation, and the aggressive legal representation you need to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Our experienced personal injury lawyers are committed to fighting for your right to fair compensation and ensuring your recovery isn’t burdened by financial strain. Time is of the essence – contact us now at (972) 848-4848 to start your car accident claim process today.
FREE CASE REVIEW
Address
5787 S. Hampton Rd.
Suite 445
Dallas, TX 75232
Phone
Hours
Calls are answered 24/7
Officer hours are 8 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
Office Location
One West Hills Building
(Near Hampton Road and Marvin D. Love Freeway / U.S. Highway 67)