Understanding Legal vs. Illegal U-Turns in Elk Grove, California

Do you know the difference between legal and illegal U-turns in Elk Grove, California? Understanding when and where you can legally make a U-turn is vital to keeping everyone safe. Here’s what you need to know.

Legal U-Turns in Elk Grove, California

You can only make a legal U-turn under certain conditions in Elk Grove. Specifically, you are allowed to make a U-turn:

• By crossing a double yellow line (when it’s safe to do so)
• In a residential area if there are no oncoming vehicles within 200 feet
• At intersections with green lights or arrows unless a “No U-turn” sign says otherwise) 
• On a divided highway with an opening in the center divider

California Vehicle Code (CVC) § 22100.5 states that you must always make U-turns from the left-most lane that’s legally available at intersections with traffic signals or control devices.

Illegal U-Turns in Elk Grove, California

U-turns are illegal in Elk Grove under the following conditions:

• In any area with a “No U-Turn” sign posted
• At, on, or near a railroad crossing
• On a one-way street
• On a divided highway that would require crossing a curb, dividing section, strip of land, or two sets of double yellow lines
• In any area where you cannot see clearly for 200 feet in either direction
• In front of a fire station or by using a fire station driveway
• In a business district

Are There Exceptions to the Rules?

Yes. CVC § 22102 generally prohibits U-turns in business districts except at intersections or where openings are provided. Similarly, § 22103 forbids U-turns in residential areas if an oncoming vehicle is within 200 feet, except at intersections with traffic control devices directing the oncoming traffic.

Types of Accidents Caused by Illegal U-Turns

When drivers ignore traffic rules or misjudge the safety of a U-turn, accidents can and do happen. Some of the most common types of accidents resulting from illegal U-turns include:

• Head-On collisions – If a driver makes an illegal U-turn in front of oncoming traffic, they may collide head-on with a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction.
• Side-impact or T-bone accidents – A side-impact or T-bone collision can occur if a driver makes an unlawful U-turn at an intersection without checking for cross traffic.
• Rear-end collisions – If a driver makes an unexpected or illegal U-turn, others behind them might not have enough time to stop, leading to a rear-end crash.
• Sideswipe accidents – Sideswipes can occur if a driver makes an illegal U-turn on a multi-lane road without noticing a vehicle approaching from the side.
• Pedestrian or cyclist collisions – A driver who fails to notice people on foot or riding in bike lanes can cause serious and potentially fatal accidents while making an illegal U-turn. 

If you or someone you love suffered injuries in a collision, an experienced U-turn accident attorney can determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.  

Impact of U-Turn Accidents on Victims

U-turn accident injuries can have severe consequences for victims. Common injuries include broken bones, whiplash, and head trauma, all of which can require extensive medical treatment. The long-term health effects of these injuries can also be severe, with some victims requiring months or years of rehabilitation. For many, the emotional and financial toll of recovering from a U-turn accident adds additional stress, affecting their quality of life and overall well-being.

Contact Demas Law Group After a U-Turn Accident in Elk Grove, California

You could be entitled to compensation if you were hurt in an Elk Grove U-turn accident. The experienced car accident attorneys at Demas Law Group are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Contact us today for a free consultation.