What Are U-Turns and Are They Legal in Nashville?

U-turns are a common maneuver that many drivers use to change direction on the road. While they can be convenient, U-turns can also cause confusion and lead to accidents, especially in busy urban areas. Understanding when U-turns are illegal and how to safely make them when they are permitted is key for Tennessee drivers.

If you do find yourself injured in an accident involving a U-turn or other unconventional turn, a Nashville personal injury lawyer can assist you in recovering the compensation you need to move forward and heal.

When and Where U-turns Can Be Made

A U-turn means a driver makes a 180-degree turn to reverse their direction on a road. While U-turns are legal in many situations, there are specific rules across the state of Tennessee that dictate when and where U-turns are allowed.

In Nashville, U-turns are prohibited in the following situations:

• At intersections with a No U-turn sign. Many intersections have signs that clearly prohibit U-turns.
• On curves or hills. U-turns are not allowed on curves or near the crest of a hill where visibility is limited.
• When obstructing traffic. If they would disrupt the flow of traffic or pose a danger to other vehicles, U-turns should not be made.

Drivers must also ensure that they have a clear view of oncoming traffic for at least 500 feet before making a U-turn, according to Tennessee law. Failure to follow these rules can result in traffic citations and an increased risk of accidents.

Even when U-turns are permitted, proceeding with caution is essential as not all drivers anticipate U-turns, especially at intersections where they are less common. A driver making a U-turn may catch other motorists off guard, leading to sudden braking or swerving.

Plus, intersections can be especially confusing when multiple lanes of traffic are involved. Drivers may not be aware that a U-turn is being attempted, leading to collisions with vehicles going straight or turning from the opposite direction. There are also risks for pedestrians who may not expect a vehicle to suddenly change direction.

The Risks of Unconventional Turns

While U-turns are the most common type of unconventional turn, other maneuvers like three-point turns or sudden lane changes can also create confusion and lead to accidents. These types of turns can disrupt the flow of traffic, cause unexpected stops, and increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions or side-impact crashes.

After a collision, a Nashville personal injury lawyer will gather evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports, to determine fault. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Do you believe a driver who made a U-turn should be held responsible for your accident-related expenses? When you want to recover damage from a reckless driver, talk to the lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC about how to strengthen your claim and reach your objectives. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.