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A serious collision involving a marked police vehicle has once again highlighted how dangerous illegal U-turns can be on busy New York roadways. According to authorities, two police officers were sitting in their patrol car when a driver attempted an illegal U-turn and slammed into them, causing significant injuries. Incidents like this are all too familiar on heavily traveled routes throughout Westchester County and the greater New York City area.
Why Illegal U-Turns Cause Devastating Accidents
Illegal U-turns often occur where traffic is fast-moving and sightlines are limited—conditions common on major arteries and local thoroughfares near White Plains, Yonkers, and throughout Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. When a driver suddenly reverses direction or crosses lanes unlawfully, other motorists—and even stopped emergency vehicles—have little to no time to react.
These crashes frequently result in:
- High-speed side-impact or rear-end collisions
- Severe spinal, head, and orthopedic injuries
- Multi-vehicle pileups involving innocent drivers and passengers
Even trained officers in marked vehicles are vulnerable when traffic laws are ignored.
Liability in Illegal U-Turn Accidents
From a legal standpoint, drivers who make illegal U-turns are often clearly negligent, but every serious crash still demands a full investigation. Key questions include:
- Was the U-turn prohibited by signage or road markings?
- Were speed, distraction, or impairment factors?
- Did road design, traffic signals, or poor visibility contribute?
In some cases, additional liability may extend beyond the driver—to vehicle owners, employers, or even government entities responsible for roadway design and traffic control.
Why Experience Matters After a Serious Car Accident
For more than 35 years, Norman Gershon has been known across the tri-state area as the car accident lawyer other lawyers call to try their toughest cases. With decades of trial experience and tens of millions of dollars recovered for injured clients, Norman prepares every case as if it will be decided by a jury—because that’s how real leverage is built against insurance companies.
His record includes major verdicts and settlements in motor vehicle cases across Westchester, the Bronx, Queens, and Manhattan, including:
- $3,000,000 verdict for a motor vehicle accident causing lumbar fusion (Bronx Supreme Court)
- $5,445,000 verdict for cervical and lumbar fusion injuries (Kings Supreme Court)
- $2,500,000 verdict in a Westchester County intersection crash
Clients consistently praise his preparation, compassion, and courtroom skill:
“Smart, experienced, compassionate… the class of the field.” — Michael Benowich
“He was comfortable and confident in the courtroom — top-notch.” — Lance, NY
Injured in a Crash Caused by an Illegal Turn?
Whether a serious accident happens in White Plains, along a Westchester corridor, or on crowded NYC streets, the aftermath can be life-changing. Medical bills, lost income, and long-term pain demand more than a quick insurance settlement—they demand a trial lawyer who knows how to win.
If you or a loved one were injured because a driver made an illegal U-turn or other reckless maneuver, putting 35 years of proven trial experience on your side can make all the difference
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