Motorcycle Crash Near Tampa Caused by U-Turn

U-turns can be incredibly dangerous, and motorcyclists are often particularly vulnerable to vehicles making these maneuvers. While U-turns might be “legal” in many areas throughout Florida, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they are safe. Drivers making U-turns must scan for potential hazards – including approaching motorcyclists. A recent crash near Tampa was seemingly caused by this exact scenario, and it claimed the life of one motorcyclist. What can you do if you were harmed in a U-turn motorcycle accident in Tampa?

Fatal U-Turn on US 19 Raises Unanswered Questions 

In late January of 2025, various sources reported that a motorcyclist had been in a collision on US 19. The crash occurred in the Tampa area, and it involved a 76-year-old motorist attempting to make a U-turn. The senior citizen was driving a Subaru Outback when he attempted the maneuver at an intersection. This brought the car into the path of a motorcyclist, who was struck and killed.

The Florida Highway Patrol says that they are continuing to investigate the accident. A key question is whether the U-turn was legal. In Florida, drivers are allowed to make U-turns in many situations. However, U-turns are illegal on certain highways and in business districts. Obviously, U-turns are also illegal when road signs specifically prohibit them.

In addition to examining the circumstances of the U-turn, investigators may also look into other potential signs of negligence. These might include distraction, intoxication, or the failure to wear prescription glasses/contact lenses.

Legal U-Turns Can Still Be Dangerous 

Even if it might be legal to execute a U-turn at a specific location, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it is a safe decision. Perhaps most notably, drivers performing U-turns must yield to all other traffic. They must proceed only when it is safe, and areas with poor visibility may make safe U-turns impossible.

Even if a driver was legally allowed to make a U-turn, they may still be liable for the injuries of a motorcyclist they struck. An investigation may make it clear that the driver who made this U-turn was to blame for the crash. This may lead to a motorcycle accident lawsuit, perhaps allowing the victim and their family to pursue compensation for various damages.

These damages may include funeral expenses, lost income, medical costs, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and many others. Speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to learn more.

Can a Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help Me? 

A Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer may be able to help after a crash caused by an unsafe U-turn. If this crash has claimed the life of a motorcyclist in your family, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. To proceed effectively, it makes sense to discuss your unique circumstances alongside an experienced attorney. Contact Anderson & Anderson today to get started with an action plan.

Sources: 

pasconewsonline.com/fhp-u-turn-leads-to-fatal-motorcycle-crash-on-us-19-in-hudson/article_a2183db8-dcf9-11ef-9b47-e3f478eec7e1.html

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.1515.html