Summary
U-turn accidents in California often happen due to driver distraction, poor visibility, speeding, or misjudging distance. These crashes can involve multiple vehicles or pedestrians, leading to serious injuries and costly claims. Understanding common causes and legal rules helps victims build stronger personal injury claims and pursue fair compensation.
Table of Contents
Making a U-turn might seem simple, but U-turn accidents in California are among the most unpredictable and dangerous types of crashes. A single wrong turn can lead to a car collision involving multiple vehicles or pedestrians on busy streets like Crenshaw or Torrance Boulevard.
Victims often face medical bills, emotional trauma, and challenges with insurance claims. To prevent further harm, it’s essential to understand what makes U-turns so risky and how California law applies. This knowledge helps drivers stay safer—and helps victims build stronger cases.
Illegal vs. Legal U-turns in California
U-turns are not automatically illegal in California, but the law strictly defines when and where they can be made. Many traffic accidents happen because drivers misunderstand these rules. Under the California Vehicle Code, there are clear distinctions between lawful and unlawful U-turns.
When U-turns are Legal
At Traffic Signal Controlled Intersections (Vehicle Code §21451):
- A driver facing a circular green light may make a U-turn unless a posted sign prohibits it.
- A driver facing a green arrow (such as a left-turn arrow) may also make a U-turn unless signs say otherwise.
- In both cases, the driver must yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the intersection and to pedestrians lawfully using the crosswalk.
General Rules for Controlled Intersections (Vehicle Code §22100.5):
- U-turns at intersections controlled by official traffic signals or control devices are permitted as provided in Section 21451.
- All U-turns must be made from the far left-hand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel.
When U-turns are Illegal
In Business Districts (Vehicle Code §22102):
- Drivers cannot make a U-turn in a business district unless it is at an intersection or through a designated opening in a divided highway. For example, making a mid-block U-turn in busy areas of Torrance is unlawful.
- A “No U-turn” sign makes the maneuver unlawful even where U-turns are typically permitted.
On Highways with Poor Visibility (Vehicle Code §22105):
- A U-turn is illegal if the driver cannot see for 200 feet in either direction along any highway. Poor visibility is often cited in police reports and accident reports after U-turn crashes.
- This applies to any highway where the driver does not have an unobstructed view for 200 feet in both directions.
In Residential Districts (Vehicle Code §22103):
- U-turns are illegal in residential districts when another vehicle is approaching from either direction within 200 feet.
- The exception is when the driver is at an intersection controlled by an official traffic device.
The difference between legal and illegal turns is essential. In U-turn accidents in California, accident reconstruction experts and witness testimonies often concentrate on whether the driver followed these laws. If not, insurance companies and courts might quickly deem the driver negligent, affecting personal injury claims and settlement talks.
Common Causes of U-Turn Accidents in California
Driver Distraction
Looking at phones, GPS devices, or passengers instead of traffic creates dangerous blind spots. A split-second delay may cause a serious auto accident.
Poor Visibility
Nighttime conditions, rain, or blocked intersections near landmarks like the Del Amo Fashion Center increase risks. Accident reconstruction experts often point out how visibility played a role.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
When drivers make fast or illegal turns, car accidents often escalate into vehicle accidents with multiple parties. Speeding reduces reaction time and worsens impact, causing broken bones, brain injuries, and emotional trauma.
Misjudging Distance and Timing
Drivers often underestimate oncoming traffic. A poorly timed U-turn can result in car collision scenarios involving pedestrians and multiple cars.
How U-Turn Accidents Impact Pedestrians and Multiple Vehicles
U-turn accidents frequently involve more than two vehicles, creating complex injury claims. Pedestrians at intersections are especially vulnerable. Victims may face:
- Medical treatment for broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and long-term recovery.
- Medical bills that insurance companies may undervalue.
- Personal Injury cases involving personal injury claims that require strong legal advice.
These cases may also require accident reconstruction experts and medical provider testimony to confirm the extent of damage.
Why Understanding Causes Matters for Liability and Injury Claims
Proving fault in U-turn accidents is crucial for fair personal injury claims. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts during settlement negotiations. Victims must show evidence of negligent drivers, such as:
- Police reports and accident reports
- Witness testimonies
- Records of medical treatment and medical bills
- Findings from accident reconstruction experts
A strong legal team in Crenshaw can hold insurance companies accountable and pursue justice.
Steps to Take After a U-Turn Accident
If you’re involved in a U-turn accident in California:
- Call 911 immediately – Request police reports for documentation.
- Seek medical treatment – Even minor injuries may worsen without care.
- Gather evidence – Take photos, get accident reports, and collect witness testimonies.
- Report to auto insurance – File insurance claims promptly.
- Consult a personal injury attorney – A skilled car accident attorney can handle settlement negotiations with insurance adjusters.
Don’t Face Accident Claims Alone—Get Help Today
U-turn accidents in California can lead to severe physical, financial, and emotional trauma. From medical bills to insurance claims, victims often feel overwhelmed. If you or a loved one has been injured, our Legal Team is here to fight for your rights.
Consult an experienced car accident lawyer in Crenshaw today for legal advice, guidance through personal injury cases, and support in pursuing fair compensation. We offer free consultations to help you understand your options.
📞 Call now for a free case review. Protect your rights, secure medical treatment, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
No. U-turns are legal if done safely and not prohibited by signs. However, California Vehicle Code 22102 bans them in business districts except at intersections.
Consult a car accident lawyer in Crenshaw. A personal injury lawyer can challenge unfair denials and negotiate better settlements.
Yes. Pedestrians struck during a U-turn may pursue personal injury claims for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
Compensation may cover medical bills, property damage, and emotional distress. Settlement negotiations often involve insurance adjusters and auto insurance providers.
