It is illegal to make a U-turn at a red light in Florida. Florida traffic law requires drivers facing a steady red signal to stop and remain stopped until the light turns green. Understanding this is important, as many drivers incorrectly assume that U-turns follow the same rules as right turns on red.
If you were injured in a Florida crash involving an illegal U-turn, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. A Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can help you understand your options and build a strong claim for damages on your behalf.
What the Law Says About Making a U-Turn at a Red Light in Florida
If you’re wondering whether it is legal to make a U-turn at a red light in Florida, it helps to look closely at what state traffic laws actually allow. Under Florida law, drivers facing a steady red signal must stop and remain stopped until a green light appears, with only limited exceptions.
Those exceptions apply to right turns on red and certain left turns between one-way streets, not U-turns.
As a result, making a U-turn at a red light is not permitted in Florida, even if there is no sign specifically prohibiting it. Drivers must wait for a green signal before executing a U-turn and must ensure the maneuver can be completed safely.
How U-Turn Accidents Happen
U-turn accidents can happen for many different reasons. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a U-turn crash, an attorney can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and prove that the at-fault driver should be held responsible for vehicle damage and other losses.
You can count on a skilled lawyer to file a strong claim for a U-turn accident caused by any of the following factors:
- Misjudging the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles when making a U-turn
- A motorist who did not expect a U-turn at a red light
- Poor lighting or obstructed views at a traffic light
- Confusion at a busy intersection
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Failure to follow driving safety rules
- Ignoring traffic signs
- Failure to keep a proper lookout for oncoming vehicles or pedestrians
- Distracted driving
If you’ve been involved in a U-turn collision involving one of the above-listed factors, don’t wait to consult with a lawyer. An attorney can assess your situation, explain your best course of action, and answer any questions you have about the legality of making a U-turn at a red light in Florida.
What to Do After a Crash Involving an Illegal U-Turn in Florida
Just because it’s illegal to make a U-turn at a red light in Florida doesn’t mean that negligent drivers won’t make this maneuver. A crash caused by an illegal U-turn can leave you injured and unsure of what steps to take next. What you do in the moments and days following the collision can make a real difference in your health and legal claim.
You’ll want to take the following actions to protect your best interests:
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention right away
- Cooperate with law enforcement, but don’t admit fault
- Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage and injuries
- Collect contact information from witnesses
- Exchange insurance details with involved drivers
- Preserve evidence, including medical records
- Consult a car accident lawyer
How a Lawyer Can Help You After a U-Turn Accident
Recovering from injuries suffered in a U-turn accident can be difficult, especially when you’ve been left with a condition that limits your ability to work and enjoy life. The good news is that a personal injury lawyer can pursue compensation to cover your medical bills, pay for vehicle repairs, and support your recovery process.
Here’s what a dedicated attorney will do to help you get back on your feet after a crash:
- Investigate the accident, gathering police reports, footage of the crash, witness statements, medical records, and other forms of evidence
- Determine whether the U-turn was legal and safely executed under Florida law
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Protect you from insurance tactics designed to shift blame or downplay your injuries
- Calculate the full value of your claim
- Negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects what you’ve been through
- File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer
- Represent you in court and push for an outcome that meets your needs
- Answer any questions you have and explain when it is legal to make a U-turn at a red light in Florida
Call or text 800-602-5000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Learn More About Whether It is Legal to Make a U-Turn at a Red Light in Florida
At Blakeley Law Firm, we believe in providing the education and representation you need to make smart decisions throughout the legal process and get the settlement you deserve. We’ve recovered over $250 million in damages for accident victims and have 40 years of combined experience handling cases like yours.
If you’ve been struck by a vehicle that was making an illegal U-turn, our attorneys can help you file a strong claim for compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to get started on your case. We’ll meet with you to explain the claims process and whether it is legal to make a U-turn at a red light in Florida.
