Do U-Turns Resulting in an Accident Qualify as Improper Turns?

As with left-hand turns, accidents resulting from U-turns are virtually always the fault of the driver who made the turn. Drivers making a U-turn are obligated to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic and make the turn only when it is safe and legal to do so. A U-turn can be a particularly difficult turn to make safely because the driver has to worry about oncoming traffic as well as traffic turning right in his/her direction. If an accident results, the driver making the U-turn will likely be held responsible even if the turn was legal because of these constraints.

U-turns are prohibited in certain areas, in which case the driver who made a U-turn would certainly be at fault for any resulting collision. For instance, U-turns are often prohibited at intersections, near curves, and on hills because of the risks they pose. In most states, U-turns are also prohibited at red lights, but some states, such as Arizona, allow U-turns on red unless otherwise indicated at the intersection. The vehicle cannot enter the crosswalk or intersection when making the turn, however.

Remember that a U-turn is always an improper turn if you fail to verify that the intersection and opposing road are clear and safe. Also keep in mind that the oncoming traffic has the right of way in all situations to prevent an accident.