As experienced U-turn car accident lawyers in Seattle, we work to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
Whether you were injured by a negligent driver making an illegal U-turn or another party is disputing your claim, our Seattle U-turn car accident attorneys are prepared to stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
Why U-Turn Accidents Are Dangerous
U-turn accidents pose significant risks to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. In many cases, these collisions occur because a driver makes a U-turn in an illegal or unsafe location, such as on a highway or in an area with restricted visibility.
U-turns can lead to head-on collisions, T-bone accidents, and side-impact crashes, all of which can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Some of the main reasons why U-turn accidents are dangerous include:
- Restricted Visibility: U-turns often occur at intersections or busy roads where drivers may have difficulty seeing oncoming traffic.
- Sudden Maneuvers: A U-turn is a sudden and sometimes unexpected maneuver that gives other drivers little time to react.
- Violations of Traffic Laws: Many U-turns are made in areas where they are prohibited by law, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
U-Turn Accident Statistics in Washington
In Washington, traffic accidents caused by U-turns are a significant issue. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), U-turn accidents make up a notable portion of all intersection-related collisions in the state.
Due to the nature of the crash and the speed at which many drivers are traveling, these accidents frequently result in severe injuries.
Important Statistics
- In 2022, intersection-related accidents accounted for over 50% of all collisions in Washington.
- U-turn-related crashes are particularly dangerous, leading to serious injuries in over 20% of cases.
- Approximately 10% of fatal accidents in Washington involve a driver making an illegal U-turn.
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Washington State U-Turn Laws
Understanding Washington’s U-turn laws is crucial when dealing with a U-turn accident case. These laws dictate when and where U-turns are allowed and can be pivotal in determining liability in a U-turn collision.
Key Washington U-Turn Laws:
- RCW 46.61.295—This law makes U-turns illegal where signs prohibit them or where visibility is obstructed within 500 feet.
- RCW 46.61.125 – U-turns are not allowed on curves or near the crest of a hill where the driver’s view is obstructed.
- RCW 46.61.140 – Drivers must yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles before making a U-turn.
When a driver violates these laws and causes an accident, they may be held liable for any resulting damages. As experienced auto collision attorneys in Seattle, Washington, we know how to use these laws to build a strong case for our clients.
Common Injuries in U-Turn Accidents
U-turn accidents can lead to various injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Because these crashes often involve the front or side of the vehicle, they can cause serious harm to both drivers and passengers.
Some of the most common injuries we see in U-turn accidents include:
- Whiplash: Sudden impacts can cause the head and neck to jerk violently, leading to soft tissue injuries.
- Broken Bones: The force of a U-turn accident can cause fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can result from the impact of the crash or from striking the interior of the vehicle.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe U-turn accidents can result in spinal cord damage, which may lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, which may require emergency medical attention.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a U-turn accident, our Seattle injury attorneys can help you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Determining Fault in a U-Turn Accident
One of the most critical aspects of any U-turn accident case is determining who is at fault. Washington follows a comparative negligence system, meaning both parties involved in an accident can share responsibility. However, the driver who made the U-turn is often found liable if they violated traffic laws or failed to yield the right of way.
As your Seattle car wreck lawyer, we will thoroughly investigate your case to gather evidence that proves the other driver was at fault.
This may involve:
- Reviewing traffic camera footage
- Obtaining police reports
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
Our team is dedicated to building a strong case on your behalf and ensuring you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
After a U-turn accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the extent of your injuries and the circumstances of the crash. As experienced Seattle U-turn car accident attorneys, we have helped countless clients recover the compensation they deserve.
The types of compensation you may be eligible for include:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, including future lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress you have endured as a result of the accident.
- Property Damage: Compensation for repairs to your vehicle or its replacement if it was totaled in the accident.
At Bernard Law Group, we are committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation available in your case. We aim to ensure you can focus on healing while we handle the legal aspects of your claim.
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How We Can Help You
At Bernard Law Group, we take pride in our hands-on approach to each case. We will handle all aspects of your claim, including:
- Gathering and preserving evidence
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit, if necessary
- Representing you in court Our team of Seattle U-turn car accident attorneys has the experience and resources to aggressively pursue your claim and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Contact Our Seattle U-Turn Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a U-turn accident, don’t wait to seek legal representation. The sooner you contact our team, the sooner we can build a strong case on your behalf. With years of experience representing clients in car accident cases, we know what it takes to secure the compensation you deserve.
At Bernard Law Group, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Let us help you hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and get you the justice you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Seattle car wreck lawyer. We’re ready to fight for you!
