U-Turn Car Accident Lawyers in Burlington, VT

Life can flip upside down in an instant, especially after a U-turn accident. These crashes happen when a driver turns their vehicle in the opposite direction but ends up colliding with another car, cyclist, or even a pedestrian. The results can range from frustrating fender benders to life-changing injuries. If you’ve been through this, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed—physically, emotionally, and financially.

That’s where we come in. At Horn Wright, LLP, our U-turn accident team knows how tough this can be. We are here to take that stress off your shoulders.  We will guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. You focus on healing—we will handle the rest. 

What Causes U-Turn Accidents in Burlington?

These U-turns become involved accidents; and yet, they also happen because plenty goes wrong when this tricky maneuver is undertaken.

Some motorists do improper, unsafe, or illegal U-turns. Under Vermont law, you can't make a U-turn if it interferes with the normal flow of traffic or where visibility is obstructed, for example, on a curve or over a hill. Unfortunately, not everyone obeys. Some are just distracted—texting, fooling with their GPS, or simply not paying attention to the road.

And then there's the weather in Burlington. Winters can be no joke here. In snowy, icy roads or with foggy mornings, judging whether a U-turn is possible can be tricky. That, combined with busy streets such as Main Street or Shelburne Road, provides a recipe for disaster.

Common Injuries from U-Turn Accidents

Accidents like these leave lasting scars on the body and the mind. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, and concussions. In worse cases, the victim may experience spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries that may take months or years to recover from.

But it's not just about physical pain. There is the emotional toll, too. Anxiety, PTSD, and depression often creep in after an accident, especially if your daily life is completely upended. It's tough, but you don't have to face it alone. 

What Are Burlington's Traffic Laws on U-Turns?

In Burlington and throughout Vermont, there are rules about making U-turns in order to keep everyone safe. You can't make a U-turn where signs specifically say you can't or anywhere it might interfere with other drivers. School zones, busy intersections, and downtown streets are often off-limits.

If the perpetrator has violated these laws and caused an accident, they are probably at fault. They may receive fines, points on their license, and be held responsible for paying damages to anyone they've injured. Understanding these laws can really help you build a great case after a crash.

What Should You Do After a U-Turn Accident?

An accident is terrifying. After the initial shock wears off, you need to act fast and protect yourself and your case.

First, ensure you are safe. If your vehicle is drivable, pull over to a safe location. Call 911 to report the accident and get medical help if you need it. Even if you think you are "fine," believe us—some injuries don't appear until later.

Next, collect evidence. Take pictures of everything: your car, the other car, the intersection, road signs, skid marks—anything that will help tell the story of what happened. If there are witnesses, get their contact information. A police report and witness statements can go a long way in proving what really happened.

Finally, reach out to a lawyer who knows how to handle cases like yours. The sooner you do this, the better your chances of getting the compensation you need to move forward. 

How Do You Prove Fault in a U-Turn Accident?

Proving fault is not always easy, but it is critical. That is where solid evidence comes in. Traffic cameras, witness statements, and even the damage on your vehicle can help paint a clear picture of who caused the accident.

Usually, negligence is at the heart of these cases. Did the other driver fail to check for oncoming traffic? Were they distracted? Did they ignore a "No U-Turn" sign? If the answer is yes to any of these, they're likely responsible for the crash.

When our case demands it, our U-turn accident team does consult with experts. They break down technical details—how fast the cars were moving, for example, or what played out with the road conditions—so your case comes as strong as possible.

What Compensation Can You Get After a U-Turn Accident?

The bills begin piling up quickly after an accident. Medical expenses, car repairs, lost wages-it all adds up. That is why it is so important to pursue compensation.

You can claim economic damages for the tangible costs, like hospital bills, physical therapy, or time off work. But don't forget non-economic damages. Pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality-of-life matter, too.

It's a headache dealing with insurance companies. They will try to make the claim as small as possible or even blame you for the accident. That is where we come in. We will handle the back-and-forth so that you do not have to.

How Horn Wright, LLP Can Help You

We know you have enough to worry about at the moment. At Horn Wright, LLP, we exist to make your life less complicated. We have successfully handled countless cases like yours, and we know our way around Vermont's traffic laws and the complexities of driving in Burlington.

A car accident while making a U-turn may flip your world around. You're hurt, frustrated, and probably are just wondering what to do next. We fight to get you the compensation you deserve. We dig into every detail of your case, gather all the evidence you need, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies. When it comes to it, we are not afraid to take your case to court. 

Horn Wright, LLP is here to help you get through this rough time. Call or text us today for a free consultation.