What Should I Do if I Was Involved in a Truck Accident Caused by a U-Turn?

Most major cities across the country forbid trucks from making U-turns. Due to their massive size, large commercial trucks make very wide turns and have large blind spots. Navigating a U-turn while driving an 18-wheeler, particularly during heavy traffic, can be extremely dangerous and result in a severe truck accident.

Truck accidents are known for causing extensive property damage and catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Knowing what steps to take immediately following the accident can ensure that police and emergency medical personnel arrive at the accident scene as soon as possible.

• Call 911: If you can do so, call 911 as soon as possible and report the accident. Let dispatch know there are severe injuries so they can send an ambulance.
• Seek immediate medical attention: Truck accident injuries are often life-threatening, so it is imperative that you are examined by a medical professional as soon as possible.
• Collect evidence: Take pictures of the scene, including the damage to your vehicle, your injuries, the position of the truck, and any other evidence that can help you prove that the truck driver was at fault.
• Get witness statements: If there were witnesses who saw the accident happen, ask if they would provide a statement and ask for their contact information.
• Contact a truck accident lawyer: Truck accident claims are much more complicated than car accidents due to the severity of the average truck accident and the fact that multiple parties may be liable. An experienced lawyer can thoroughly review the details of your case and recommend the best legal course of action.

Why Is It So Dangerous for Trucks to Make U-Turns?

There is a reason why trucks are generally prohibited from making U-turns. The amount of space that a commercial truck needs to complete a U-turn is significantly larger than an average passenger vehicle. The tractor of an 18-wheeler is approximately 20 feet long, and the trailer is another 53 feet long, giving it a combined length of 70 feet or more. It can be challenging to complete a regular in a vehicle so large. Making a U-turn often requires commercial truck drivers to take up four lanes of traffic. In addition, while making the U-turn, the truck will likely be blocking one or more traffic lanes, which can increase the risk of a U-turn truck accident. Approaching motorists may also have difficulty seeing the truck if it is dark or there are other visibility issues while making a U-turn.

Damages for a Truck Accident

You may be eligible for financial compensation if you can prove that the truck driver was making a negligent U-turn. A successful lawsuit may include the following compensation:

• Medical expenses associated with your injury
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Savannah Truck Accident Lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC Represent Victims of Truck Accidents

If you were seriously injured in a truck accident while the truck driver made a U-turn, speak with our Savannah truck accident lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC. To schedule a free consultation, call 478-254-2007 or contact us online. Our office is in Macon, Georgia, serving clients in Savannah, Albany, and Atlanta.