Left turns are common causes of auto accidents. They commonly occur at intersections and stop signs, and often affect bicyclists, motorcyclists, and even pedestrians, who can end up severely injured or dead. It is common for the motorist turning left to be liable for the damages.
Why Do Left-Turn Crashes Commonly Occur
Any time a driver wants to make a left turn, unless they have a green arrow, they must always yield to oncoming traffic going straight through the intersection; they do not have the right of way. He or she must also always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. When they approach a stop sign, they must also yield to any other vehicles to their right.
Common Contributing Factors of Left-Hand Turns
There are common contributing factors of left-hand turns that often lead to accidents. Such factors include:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to use a turn signal
- Failure to yield to those who have the right-of-way
- Misjudging the distance across the intersection and the time necessary to successfully make the turn
- Misjudging the speed of an oncoming vehicle
- Speeding
- Traveling too fast considering inclement weather conditions
- Turning despite obstructed vision
Overcoming a Presumption of Negligence
In a majority of cases, the individual making the left turn has the presumption of negligence, or the assumed to have caused the accident. This is because as stated, they are required to yield the right-of-way most of the time. A driver turning left (like any driver) has a duty of care to follow the rules of the road. When they do not do so, they breach that duty.
However, this is not always the case. There are situations in which a driver has the right-of-way to turn left, but the driver of another car fails their duty of care by failing to stop at a stop sign or by running a red light.
Determining Liability
It can be difficult to determine who was in fact liable for the accident; it can be quite complicated. That is why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable Chicago personal injury attorney, who has experience with these matters.
Stein & Shulman LLC Can Help Those Who Have Been Injured in a Car Accident
At Stein & Shulman LLC, we understand the devastating effects that left-turn accidents – or any accidents – can have on you and your life. They can impact everything from your mental and emotional wellbeing to your physical wellbeing, to property damage, or even lost wages. That’s why we will fight for you to receive the compensation that you deserve. You should not have to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Let us help you. To learn more about how Stein & Shulman can help, or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
