U-Turn and Illegal Turn Accidents in Tennessee

Your Legal Rights After a Dangerous Maneuver

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we understand that not every accident stems from speeding or distraction. Some of the most devastating crashes are caused by poor judgment—such as making an unsafe U-turn or executing an illegal turn across lanes of traffic. These sudden, unpredictable maneuvers can have catastrophic consequences for unsuspecting drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash caused by an improper or unlawful turn, our experienced legal team is here to help. With a deep understanding of Tennessee traffic laws and a proven track record, our attorneys—based in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro—are committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

What Are U-Turn and Illegal Turn Accidents?

A U-turn or illegal turn accident occurs when a driver makes a prohibited or unsafe turning maneuver that disrupts the flow of traffic and causes a collision. Though these actions may appear minor, they often lead to confusion or dangerous encounters—especially in busy intersections, congested city streets, or rural areas with limited visibility. Illegal turn accidents frequently involve U-turns at intersections marked with “No U-turn” signage, left turns made from improper lanes, turns that cross multiple lanes of traffic, or failure to use a turn signal. Other dangerous situations include turns made in construction zones, turning onto a one-way street in the wrong direction, or making a U-turn on a blind curve. The resulting collisions often include T-bone or side-impact crashes, head-on collisions due to improper turns, and rear-end accidents when other vehicles must stop abruptly. Vulnerable road users like motorcyclists and pedestrians are especially at risk at intersections where these unsafe turns occur.

Tennessee Law on U-Turns and Improper Turns

Tennessee law strictly regulates turning behavior, and violations of these laws can establish clear negligence in personal injury cases. T.C.A. § 55-8-140 requires drivers to make turns only when it is safe and to signal at least 50 feet before executing a turn. T.C.A. § 55-8-143 prohibits U-turns on curves or near the crest of a hill where visibility is limited to less than 500 feet. T.C.A. § 55-8-124 mandates that drivers must obey all traffic control signs, including those prohibiting specific turning movements. Additionally, T.C.A. § 55-8-136—the state’s due care statute—requires drivers to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, even if their turn appears technically legal. When a driver disregards any of these statutes and causes an accident, they can be held financially responsible for the resulting injuries and property damage.

Who Is At Fault in an Illegal Turn Accident?

In most cases, the driver who performed the illegal or unsafe turn is found to be at fault. However, fault assessments can become complex if the turning driver claims they had the right to turn, or if there is a lack of clear video evidence or eyewitnesses. Additional complications may arise if the other driver was allegedly speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent. To determine liability, we evaluate the intersection layout and signage, review the turning driver’s behavior—including speed and turn signal usage—and gather statements from witnesses and involved parties. Where available, we also review footage from dashcams, surveillance systems, or traffic cameras. The physical evidence from the crash scene, such as vehicle positions and impact angles, also plays a vital role in reconstructing what happened.

How Our Team Proves Liability

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we approach each case with a thorough and methodical investigation. Our team visits the crash site to collect photographs and assess road conditions. We obtain and review police reports, 911 call records, and any city ordinances that may impact turn restrictions. Witness interviews help corroborate our client’s version of events, while medical records document the full scope of injury and recovery. When available, we request footage from nearby traffic or security cameras. In complex cases, we may work with accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the mechanics of the collision and help establish causation and fault. 

Common Injuries from U-Turn and Illegal Turn Accidents

Crashes resulting from improper or illegal turns often occur suddenly and involve high-impact angles, increasing the likelihood of serious injuries. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or paralysis. Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash, are also common, as are broken bones and complex fractures. Internal bleeding, organ damage, and psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder can result in long-term or even permanent impairment. Recovery from these injuries may take months or years, and in the most tragic cases, victims may suffer lifelong disabilities or die as a result of their injuries.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

If you were injured in an illegal turn accident caused by another driver’s negligence, Tennessee law allows you to pursue both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages may include emergency medical care, surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation services, prescription medications, and mobility aids. Lost wages and future income loss are also recoverable, along with vehicle repair or replacement costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving wrongful death, surviving family members may file a claim under T.C.A. § 20-5-106 to recover compensation for funeral expenses,  loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.

How Comparative Fault May Affect Your Case

Tennessee applies a modified comparative fault rule to personal injury claims. This means you can recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you are awarded $500,000 in damages but found to be 10% at fault, your final recovery will be $450,000. If you are determined to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages at all. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the injured party to minimize their liability. Our firm proactively challenges these tactics by building detailed, evidence-based arguments to protect your share of recovery.

Time Limits: Don’t Miss the Deadline to File

Tennessee has one of the shortest statutes of limitations in the country for personal injury cases. Under T.C.A. § 28-3-104, victims have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.  Delaying legal action can result in lost evidence, fading memories, and missed opportunities for justice. To preserve your rights and strengthen your case, it is essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after the accident.

Real-World Example: Illegal Left Turn Causes Catastrophic Crash

In a recent case handled by our firm, a Middle Tennessee  father was killed when another driver made an illegal U-turn in the middle of a four-lane highway.  The trucking company tried to claim our client’s husband should have been able to avoid the crash, but we were able to persuade them he had little opportunity to do so give the quickness of the illegal turn in front of him while he was driving at highway speeds.  The substantial settlement will provide financial security for his wife and minor daughter.  

What to Do After a U-Turn or Illegal Turn Crash

If you are involved in an accident caused by an improper turn, your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly affect your case. Call 911 and seek medical attention right away. Ensure that a police report is filed, and, if possible, take photos of the vehicles, roadway, traffic signs, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and avoid discussing the accident or accepting blame. Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting an attorney. Early legal intervention can help secure valuable evidence and improve your chances of receiving full compensation.

Why Choose The Law Offices of John Day, P.C.?

Led by renowned trial attorney John Day, our legal team has decades of experience successfully representing injury victims across Middle Tennessee. We specialize in serious injury cases, complex liability issues, and navigating challenging insurance disputes. Clients choose us because of our meticulous preparation, strategic legal planning, and deep commitment to client care. We charge no fees unless we win, and we offer accessible service from our offices in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro. With a reputation built on integrity, results, and client satisfaction, we are proud to be trusted advocates for individuals and families throughout the region.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a U-turn or illegal turn accident in Tennessee, do not try to navigate the legal process alone. The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. is here to help you secure justice and full compensation. Your consultation is free, confidential, and without obligation—and we don’t get paid unless we recover money for you.

Justice Starts With a Call

An illegal or improper turn can change your life in an instant. If someone else’s dangerous maneuver caused your injuries, let our experienced legal team hold them accountable. We are here to fight for your rights and help you take the next step toward recovery. Call today and let us start building your case.