Whether a driver makes an illegal U-turn or fails to yield to oncoming traffic, these accidents can create challenging legal situations. If you’ve been involved in a U-turn accident, working with a San Antonio U-turn accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
An experienced U-turn accident attorney in San Antonio can help you understand your case, determine liability, and seek the compensation you deserve. At Patterson Law Group, we have extensive experience helping injured victims protect their rights after U-turn accidents. We are committed to helping our clients every step of the way.
Understanding U-turn Accidents
Nearly 50% of all accidents take place at intersections. A significant portion of these crashes involve drivers making U-turns. A U-turn accident occurs when a driver changes direction in the middle of the road by making a U-turn.
These accidents often happen when a driver attempts to turn around at a location that may not be safe.
Some common causes of U-turn accidents include:
- Improper U-turns: Drivers may make U-turns in areas where they are not allowed, such as near intersections or busy roads.
- Driver Negligence: Failing to check for oncoming traffic or misjudging the speed of other vehicles can lead to collisions.
- Road Conditions: Wet or slippery roads, poor visibility, and unclear signage can contribute to U-turn accidents.
In Texas, U-turn accidents are more common than many people realize. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, thousands of accidents occur yearly due to improper U-turns.
Working with a San Antonio auto collision lawyer can help you better understand the legal issues and ensure you receive the compensation you need to recover.
Texas Laws on U-turns and Road Safety
In Texas, traffic laws surrounding U-turns are designed to keep drivers safe and reduce the risk of accidents. While U-turns are legal in many areas, there are specifics that drivers must follow:
- No U-turn Zones: In some areas, U-turns are prohibited, especially near intersections, highways, or areas with heavy traffic.
- Yielding to Oncoming Traffic: When making a U-turn, drivers must always yield to oncoming vehicles. Failing to do so can result in an accident and legal consequences.
- Clear Visibility: Drivers should only make U-turns with a clear view of the road and enough time to complete the turn safely.
Violating U-turn laws can result in tickets, fines, and criminal charges. Local regulations may also come into play in San Antonio, adding another layer of challenges to U-turn accidents. An experienced accident attorney in San Antonio can help you understand how these laws apply to your case and your legal options.
Determining Fault in a U-turn Accident
One of the biggest challenges in a U-turn accident is determining who is at fault. In many cases, the driver making the U-turn may be found responsible, but there are situations where both parties could share the blame.
Some common factors in determining liability include:
- Negligence: If the driver making the U-turn failed to yield the right of way, ignored traffic signs, or did not properly check for oncoming traffic, they might be liable for the accident. This negligence can result in serious consequences, not only for the at-fault driver but also for any victims involved.
- Comparative Fault: Texas follows a comparative fault system, which means that both drivers could share responsibility for the crash. For example, if the other driver was speeding, distracted by their phone, or drove recklessly, they might also be found partially at fault. This shared responsibility can significantly impact the outcome of any claims for damages.
If you’re determined to be less than 50% responsible for the accident in Texas, you can still pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. However, it’s important to note that your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation award in the incident. This system can sometimes lead to disputes over the exact degree of liability, making it crucial for those involved to seek trusted legal guidance.
A U-turn accident attorney in San Antonio can be invaluable in these situations. They can help investigate the specifics of your accident to build a strong case that protects your rights and interests.
The Role of Our San Antonio U-turn Accident Lawyer
At Patterson Law Group, we thoroughly investigate U-turn accidents to uncover the facts and prove liability. Our team works diligently to gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. We also work with experts when necessary to reconstruct the accident and determine how it happened.
One of the key aspects of any U-turn accident case is proving fault. This requires a careful review of the evidence, including the location of the accident, traffic signals, and the actions of both drivers leading up to the crash. Our San Antonio U-turn accident lawyer is skilled at piecing together these details to build a strong case that supports your claim for compensation.
Types of Compensation You Can Seek
If you’ve been injured in a U-turn accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. The types of compensation you can seek include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of immediate medical care, surgeries, and ongoing treatments needed to recover from your injuries.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you could be compensated for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages and any future loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: U-turn accidents can cause not only physical pain but also emotional distress and reduced quality of life. You may be entitled to compensation for these non-economic damages.
Each case is different, and the compensation you may receive depends on the severity of your injuries and other factors related to the accident.
An injury attorney in San Antonio, TX, can help you determine the types of compensation you are eligible for and fight to get you the maximum amount possible.
The Legal Process for U-turn Accident Claims
- Filing an Insurance Claim: You must file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company after the accident. You may have to deal with several insurers if multiple drivers share fault.
- Negotiating Settlements: Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims for less than they are worth. A San Antonio auto accident lawyer can negotiate to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Litigation vs. Settlement: In some cases, settling without going to court may be possible. However, your lawyer may recommend pursuing the case in court if the insurance company fails to offer a fair amount.
The legal process can be overwhelming, but having an experienced attorney makes it easier. Your accident attorney in San Antonio will guide you through each step, from filing your claim to negotiating with the insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial.
How Our San Antonio U-turn Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that each accident is unique, and we tailor our approach to fit the specifics of your case. Our San Antonio U-turn accident attorney will develop a personalized legal strategy based on the facts of your accident and your individual needs. We will work closely with you to ensure that you fully understand your legal options and the steps we are taking to help you.
Communicating with insurance companies is one of the most challenging parts of dealing with a U-turn accident.
Our team will handle all communication on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you are not pressured into accepting a lowball offer. We are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve, whether negotiating a fair settlement for your damages or taking your case to trial.
Contact Our San Antonio U-turn Accident Lawyer Today
If you are dealing with injuries and other damages from a U-turn accident, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact a San Antonio U-turn accident lawyer, the better your chances are of building a strong case and securing the compensation you need. At Patterson Law Group, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options.
Our experienced attorneys are here to support you through every step of the legal process. Let us handle the legal work for your case so that you can focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with a dedicated injury attorney in San Antonio, TX.
