A traffic accident can occur during any maneuver. However, some road actions can be particularly hazardous. When a driver executes a U-turn without taking the proper precautions, they increase the likelihood of causing a serious accident with potentially catastrophic injuries. Crash survivors often suffer severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial upheaval.
If you sustained injuries in a U-turn accident in St. Louis, an experienced car accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for your losses. At Sumner Law Group, LLC, our legal team has over 50 years of combined experience recovering compensation for injured people. We can give you the support and advocacy you need to move forward with confidence and dignity. Contact us today for a free consultation with a St. Louis U-turn collision lawyer.
Laws on U-Turns in Missouri
Missouri law states it is illegal for drivers to make a U-turn at any intersection controlled by a traffic signal or police officer. Furthermore, it is against the law to conduct a U-turn where it would endanger others or interfere with the flow of traffic.
Missouri allows motorists to make U-turns when:
- They are in a far left-hand lane where U-turns are permitted.
- There is a “U-turn only” sign.
- They are crossing a double yellow line, if making a U-turn is safe.
- They are driving in a residential area, and no vehicles are approaching from either direction within 300 feet.
Missouri expressly prohibits drivers from making a U-turn under the following circumstances:
- When there is a “No U-turn” sign
- When a U-turn could cause a hazard or interrupt traffic
- When driving on a one-way street
- When obstacles obstruct their view
- When approaching or driving over a railroad crossing
- When there is a curve in the road
- When approaching the crest of a hill
If you were hit and injured by a driver making a U-turn, our lawyers can help you build a solid car accident claim for compensation.
Common Causes of and Types of U-Turn Accidents in St. Louis
U-turn accidents often occur due to driver negligence and illegal maneuvers. Some common causes include:
- Making an illegal U-turn
- Failing to yield the right-of-way when making a U-turn
- Making a U-turn too quickly or recklessly
- Misjudging the space needed to complete the turn
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Reckless actions from other drivers
Common types of U-turn accidents include:
Who is at Fault for a U-Turn Accident in St. Louis?
Determining fault in a U-turn accident depends on which driver violated a traffic law or failed to exercise reasonable care. Typically, the driver making the U-turn shoulders more responsibility. However, the other driver may share fault if they were speeding, not paying attention, or otherwise driving negligently when the collision occurred.
A skilled attorney will investigate all factors when determining liability and gather evidence to support your U-turn accident injury claim.
What Types of Injuries Can U-Turn Crashes Cause?
U-turn accidents often involve high-impact collisions with significant force. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Lacerations and abrasions
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis
- Emotional and psychological trauma such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias
Severe or fatal injuries can also occur in high-speed U-turn collisions, especially if vehicles overturn or occupants are ejected from the car. Seeking prompt medical treatment is critical to improve your chances of recovery and protect any future personal injury claim you wish to file.
Potential Compensation in a U-Turn Car Crash Claim
The compensation you receive in a U-turn accident claim depends heavily on the severity of your injuries and who is at fault. The attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC, will fight for
U-turn accident compensation for losses like:
- Past, current, and future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Rehabilitation costs, like physical therapy and occupational therapy
- Out-of-pocket expenses like transportation to and from medical appointments
- Home health care for assistance with tasks of daily living, such as bathing and dressing
- Cost of housekeepers and childcare
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In rare cases, claimants may qualify for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the at-fault party for a deliberate and flagrant disregard for others’ safety. Consult with an experienced car accident attorney for an estimate of how much compensation might recover in a U-turn accident lawsuit or insurance claim.
What is the Deadline for Filing U-turn Accident Claims?
Missouri’s personal injury statute of limitations allows injured individuals to file a lawsuit within five years of the date of a car accident. It is imperative to consult with a knowledgeable attorney well before the deadline expires. Evidence can disappear, and eyewitness’s memories can fade quickly. The sooner you act, the more solid your case will be. If you miss the filing deadline, the court can dismiss your case, leaving you with no leverage to use against the insurance company to gain a fair U-turn accident settlement.
Why You Need Our Lawyers After a U-Turn Collision in St. Louis
Learning to cope with injuries after a U-turn accident can be challenging. Pursuing fair compensation can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to get quality medical treatment, pay the bills, and make lifestyle changes to accommodate a temporary or permanent disability. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone.
When you work with the car accident attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC, we will handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing. Our team has a long track record of winning millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Let us be your advocates on the journey toward maximum compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation with a U-turn accident lawyer in St. Louis.
