The San Diego personal injury attorneys at Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys have handled a number of car accidents, particularly those involving motorcycles, which occur at street intersections. On March 21, 2016, a 28-year-old man was injured in a motorcycle accident after a vehicle that was making an illegal U-turn struck him.
According to a report in The San Diego Union Tribune, the victim was on a 2010 Harley Davidson headed north on Euclid Avenue when a southbound vehicle made an illegal U-turn right into the path of the motorcycle. The rider crashed into the passenger side of the vehicle, which had exited state Route 94, and was thrown onto the roadway. He was transported with severe facial injuries. The 30-year-old driver was uninjured. Police do not believe alcohol was a factor in the crash.
The Law Relating to U-Turns
A number of motorcycle accidents occur at street intersections, particularly when the other vehicle is making a left turn or U-turn. Under California law, motorists are required to yield the right-of-way to oncoming motorists.
California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety.”
Fault and Liability
If the driver in this case is determined to have been at fault, he could be held liable for the injuries and damages caused. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries such as scarring or disfigurement, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced San Diego motorcycle accident lawyer who will be able to analyze all aspects of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.