If you have been injured in an accident caused by someone making an illegal U-turn in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. The most important step you can take after being injured in a U-turn car accident or suffering serious bodily injury is to reach out to us right away. We will provide you with personalized legal advice tailored to your best interests and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
About U-Turns in New Jersey
A U-turn is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous turning movements a driver or motorist can attempt. U-turns can be made from various locations, such as the side of the road, a straight roadway or highway, or even at an intersection with traffic control devices and traffic signs.
A recent report by the New Jersey Herald highlighted a tragic incident in which a 52-year-old tractor-trailer driver from Newark, NJ, attempted to make a U-turn on State Route 206 near its intersection with Halsey Road. His attempt resulted in the fatal crash and death of a 25-year-old motorcyclist. While U-turns are not inherently illegal in New Jersey, New Jersey Annotated Statute 39:4-125 prohibits U-turns where indicated by signage. Drivers must also ensure they have at least 500 feet of visibility in front of or behind them before making the maneuver. In this case, the truck driver was cited for careless driving and making an improper U-turn and received a traffic violation ticket for the unlawful turning movement.
The 500-Foot Rule in NJ
When executing a U-turn, it is crucial to ensure that other vehicles can see you from a distance. A U-turn becomes hazardous if visibility is less than 500 feet, particularly in areas with curves or hills where drivers may not be able to see you in time. This regulation exists to prevent reckless turning movements that can result in catastrophic collisions, serious personal injury, and property damage. Violating this rule demonstrates negligence and can establish liability in any resulting crash.
Types of U-Turn Accidents in NJ
Even if a driver is in a location where making a U-turn is legally permitted, they must still exercise caution to avoid causing harm to others on or near the road. Here are several examples of the potential consequences of making an unsafe U-turn:
- Colliding with an oncoming vehicle in a head-on collision or T-bone accident.
- Striking a pedestrian in a crosswalk, causing severe bodily injury.
- Causing a multi-vehicle pile-up with catastrophic damages.
- Hitting a motorcycle or bicycle resulting in fatal or serious injuries.
Tip: If you’ve been involved in an accident, ensure you obtain a copy of your NJSP accident report or any other police reports. These documents are critical evidence for proving fault and establishing the liable party’s negligence in your personal injury claim.
Who is at Fault in a U-Turn Accident in NJ?
In New Jersey, the driver attempting to make the U-turn is typically considered at fault and held responsible in a U-turn-related accident. This is due to several key reasons:
- The turning driver may have limited visibility when attempting a wide turn.
- The vehicle might not be visible to oncoming drivers, particularly during nighttime or in poor weather conditions.
- The driver making the U-turn could block a lane of traffic during the maneuver and obstruct other motorists.
- U-turns generally take longer to complete than standard left or right turns.
Even if the driver making the U-turn pulled out in front of you, it’s advisable to contact us before providing any written or recorded statement to the opposing insurance company. New Jersey law does not require you to do so. The opposing insurer may attempt to shift some or all of the blame onto you using comparative negligence arguments, and your own statements could later be used against you to damage your credibility or undermine your case. Insurance adjusters often employ tactics to minimize settlement offers and deny claims, which is why you should consult with a qualified attorney before speaking with them.
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
If you’re wondering “am I liable?” or “can I sue?” after a U-turn accident, the answer depends on the specific facts of your case. Our attorneys will evaluate the evidence, including witness statements, police reports, and accident reconstruction analysis, to determine fault and assess what your case is worth. We’ll advise you on the statute of limitations and time limit to file your legal claim, ensuring you don’t miss critical deadlines. Many clients ask “do I need a lawyer?” or “should I hire an attorney?” — while not legally required, having dedicated legal representation significantly increases your chances of recovering fair and maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact an Experienced New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer
Instead of speaking with the opposing insurer, reach out to us to schedule a free and confidential consultation. We will listen to your account, assess the facts of the case, and guide you on your legal options. Our comprehensive case evaluation includes a thorough investigation of all evidence and medical records to build an aggressive legal strategy. There are no upfront costs to retain our services. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis with no-win, no-fee guarantees and no retainer required, meaning you won’t owe any legal fees unless we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor. Our experienced and trusted local New Jersey improper U-turn accident lawyers and attorneys are here to help you recover full damages, represent injured victims, defend your rights, and negotiate with insurers to maximize your compensation. We offer same-day consultation, immediate assistance, and compassionate client-focused service. Our proven track record and decades of experience helping accident victims file successful personal injury claims mean we know how to litigate, settle, and advocate for the results you need.
