A motorcycle collision recently occurred in Manatee County, leaving a 76-year-old Bradenton man hospitalized with serious injuries. The motorcyclist was traveling west on State Road 70 when a sedan, driven by a 91-year-old Bradenton man, attempted a U-turn from the eastbound direction. The motorcyclist sustained serious injuries. Fortunately, the 91-year-old driver of the sedan was not harmed in the crash.

Who is liable in a U-turn accident?

U-turn accidents often involve a driver attempting to make a U-turn across traffic and colliding with another vehicle. Here are some common scenarios:

• U-turn violation: If the driver making the U-turn violated traffic laws, such as making a U-turn where it's prohibited or failing to yield the right-of-way, they are likely to be found at least partially liable for the accident.
• Failure to yield: If the driver not making the U-turn had the right-of-way, such as having a green light or being in a situation where the U-turning vehicle should yield, the U-turning driver could be held liable for not yielding properly.
• Visibility and timing: Factors like poor visibility, obstructed views and inadequate signaling can play a role. If the U-turning driver didn't have a clear view of oncoming traffic or didn't signal their intention to make the turn, they might be found liable for failing to take appropriate precautions.
• Speed and distance: Both drivers' speeds and the distance between them at the time the U-turn was initiated can impact liability. If the non-U-turning driver was speeding or too close to the U-turning vehicle, their actions could contribute to the accident.
• Contributory negligence: In some cases, both drivers might share some degree of fault. For instance, if the non-U-turning driver was distracted or didn't react promptly, they might share liability for the accident.
• Road conditions and weather: If road conditions or weather played a role in the accident, such as slippery roads or reduced visibility, liability could be influenced.

If you're involved in a U-turn accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a seasoned Sarasota, FL accident attorney at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh today.