Teen Motorcyclist from Brooklyn Killed After Truck Does U-Turn

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to sudden, erratic maneuvers by passenger vehicles. When a truck performs a U-turn seemingly out of nowhere, a motorcyclist may have no time to react. A recent fatal crash illustrates this fact with shocking clarity – and a teen from Brooklyn has lost his life as a result. What can you do if you were injured by a driver doing a U-turn? Is it possible to pursue compensation for your damages? This is something you might want to ask a motorcycle accident lawyer in New York.

19-Year-Old Motorcyclist Collides With Truck Performing U-Turn 

In October of 2024, various sources reported that a 19-year-old motorcyclist had lost his life after impacting a pickup truck. The driver of the truck was allegedly in the middle of performing a U-turn when the impact occurred. Although the teen was from Brooklyn, the accident occurred in New Jersey.

Police say that the pickup truck was moving through a “turnaround,” which is a designated area for legal U-turns. However, this does not necessarily mean that the pickup truck driver is free from fault. Even when moving through a turnaround, drivers must yield to traffic traveling in the opposite direction. Motorcyclists can be difficult to spot – especially at night (the accident occurred close to midnight).

Are U-Turns Illegal in NYC? 

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles in New York, you should never attempt a U-turn on a highway “unless absolutely necessary.” The DMV also states that you can make a U-turn when you have a “green arrow” left-turn signal.

The DMV states that some U-turns are inherently dangerous. For example, making a U-turn at the top of a hill or curve can lead to serious crashes. In the same way, a U-turn where there is limited visibility is highly inadvisable. Perhaps most notably, all U-turns are illegal in New York City’s “business districts.” This includes many areas in Manhattan. In addition, U-turns are illegal in all school zones. In some areas, there are signs that specifically state “no U-turns.”

Can I Pursue Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident Caused by a U-Turn? 

If you believe that your motorcycle accident was caused because of an illegal U-turn, you may be able to pursue compensation. In addition, families who have lost loved ones due to illegal U-turns may be able to file wrongful death claims. An injury lawyer can help plaintiffs prove that the U-turn occurred – and that it was unlawful.

Key Takeaways 

• In New York, U-turns are illegal in many situations
• A wrongful death claim may be possible after a fatal motorcycle accident
• A personal injury lawyer can help you prove U-turn negligence

Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Brooklyn Help? 

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Brooklyn may be able to help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages. We know how dangerous U-turns can be, and negligent drivers may be liable if these maneuvers injure motorcyclists in Brooklyn. Reach out to Cohan Law, PLLC today to learn more about your legal options.

Sources: 

nj.com/union/2024/10/19-year-old-killed-in-nj-motorcycle-crash.html

dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-5-intersections-and-turns#:~:text=You%20can%20not%20make%20a,U%2DTURN%20signs%20are%20provided.