How Fault Is Determined in a U-Turn Accident – A Complete Guide

U-turn accidents are more common than many drivers realize. Whether due to misjudged distances, failure to yield, or restricted visibility, these collisions often lead to significant damage and injuries. 

In New Jersey, determining who is at fault in a U-turn accident depends on several legal factors, including right-of-way rules and state-specific traffic laws. If you’ve been involved in a U-turn accident, understanding your rights and legal options can help you seek fair compensation. 

This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of U-turn accidents in New Jersey, including how fault is determined, common causes, and what you can do to protect your rights.

Understanding U-Turn Rules and Regulations in New Jersey

U-turns can be risky maneuvers, and when an accident occurs, determining fault can be complex. In New Jersey, U-turns are generally legal unless explicitly prohibited by traffic signs or if visibility is restricted. According to N.J.S.A. 39:4-125, a driver cannot make a U-turn if they cannot see at least 500 feet in both directions. Violating this statute can be a key factor in determining liability.

Additionally, U-turns are prohibited on curves and near the crest of a hill where visibility is compromised. If an accident occurs in these scenarios, the U-turning driver may be deemed at fault. These regulations are in place to minimize the risk of sudden stops or unexpected turns that could lead to collisions.

There are certain locations where U-turns are never allowed, including designated “No U-Turn” zones marked with signage, some intersections with specific traffic control devices, and highways with heavy traffic flow. Knowing these rules is crucial for drivers to avoid costly mistakes that can lead to accidents.

Determining Who Had the Right-of-Way

In most cases, a driver making a U-turn does not have the right-of-way. Instead, they must yield to:

• Oncoming traffic – Vehicles traveling straight have the legal right-of-way, and U-turning drivers must ensure that the road is clear before completing the turn.
  
• Pedestrians and cyclists – Those in a marked crosswalk must be given priority. Failing to yield to pedestrians can lead to not only civil liability but also potential criminal charges if injuries occur.
  
• Vehicles making right turns – In many intersections, right-turning drivers have a green arrow or right-of-way over U-turning drivers, making it critical for U-turning motorists to remain vigilant.

If a driver making a U-turn fails to yield and causes a collision, they will likely be held responsible. However, there are exceptions. If an oncoming driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was distracted at the time of the crash, they might share fault. This is where New Jersey’s comparative negligence law (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1) comes into play. If the U-turning driver is found less than 50% at fault, they may still recover damages, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Common Causes of U-Turn Accidents

U-turn accidents typically occur due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Failure to check blind spots – A U-turning driver may overlook approaching vehicles, especially those in adjacent lanes.
  
• Ignoring traffic signs – Making a U-turn in a prohibited zone or disregarding posted signage increases liability.
  
• Poor weather conditions – Fog, rain, or snow reducing visibility can make it difficult to judge the distance and speed of oncoming vehicles.
  
• Distracted driving – Texting, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions can cause a driver to misjudge the safety of a U-turn.
  
• Speeding – An oncoming driver going over the speed limit may not have enough time to react, resulting in a collision.
  
• Misjudging traffic flow – A U-turn requires enough time and space to be executed safely. Some drivers underestimate how quickly oncoming vehicles are approaching.

Key Factors in Determining Fault

Fault in a U-turn accident is assessed based on the following:

1. Traffic Camera or Dash Cam Footage – If available, this can provide conclusive evidence regarding right-of-way violations.
   
2. Witness Testimony – Eyewitnesses can confirm which driver had the right-of-way and whether traffic laws were followed.
   
3. Police Reports – The responding officer’s report will detail violations, observations at the scene, and any citations issued.
   
4. Vehicle Damage Location – The point of impact can indicate which driver was in motion and failed to yield.
   
5. Violation of Traffic Laws – If the U-turning driver ignored a traffic signal, crossed double yellow lines unlawfully, or made an illegal turn, they are likely at fault.
   
6. Skid Marks and Road Conditions – Physical evidence like skid marks and debris on the road can help accident reconstruction experts determine fault.

How to Recover Compensation After a U-Turn Accident

New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that after an accident, drivers must first file a claim with their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who was at fault (N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4). However, if the accident resulted in serious injuries or economic damages beyond what PIP covers, a victim may pursue a third-party liability claim.

Steps to Take After a U-Turn Accident:

1. Call 911 – Always report the accident and obtain a police report. The police report will document crucial details that may be used to determine liability.
   
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately but can have long-term effects.
   
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and traffic signs to support your claim.
   
4. Obtain Witness Contact Information – Witness statements can support your case by providing an unbiased account of the accident.
   
5. Exchange Information – Collect the names, insurance details, and contact information of all involved parties.
   
6. Contact an Attorney – Navigating insurance claims and liability disputes can be complex. Consulting an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a U-turn accident, Rosengard Law Group is here to help. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Contact us today at (856) 284-6446 or visit Rosengard Law Group to learn more about your legal options.