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 Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers, 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.
