How to Win a Left Turn Accident Case
Hello, everyone! Today, I want to talk to you about car accidents involving left turns. Did you know that one of the most common types of car accident cases involves a left-hand turn collision? Well, yes, it’s true! The driver making the left turn has to deal with the flow of traffic, keep an eye on the traffic lights, and make sure there is enough space to make the turn safely. It’s a lot to handle, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. So, let’s dive into how to win a left turn accident case and come out on the other side with your head held high.
First things first, let’s paint a picture. Imagine you’re driving along, and you have the green light. You are about to make a left-hand turn. Suddenly, an oncoming vehicle barrels through the intersection, not adhering to the speed limit. Before you know it, BAM! You’ve got a left turn collision. It’s not your fault, but how do you prove that?
Step 1: Secure the Scene and Gather Evidence
After making sure everyone is safe, it’s important to secure the scene. Take photos of the vehicles involved, the traffic lights, and any skid marks. If there were witnesses, make sure you get their contact information. They might have seen if the oncoming driver was speeding or if they ran a red light.
Step 2: File a Police Report
Call the police to the scene. This is critical because the police report can be a valuable piece of evidence. It documents the facts of the accident and sometimes includes the officer’s opinion on who was at fault. Make sure to give a detailed account of what happened.
Step 3: Understand the Laws Regarding Left Turns
In most jurisdictions, the left turning drivers are often considered at fault in left turn collisions. This is because they are required to yield to oncoming traffic. However, there are exceptions, like if the oncoming vehicle was speeding or ran a red light. Knowing the laws can help you build a stronger case.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to see a doctor. Injuries from car accidents can manifest days or even weeks later. Having a medical record that links your injuries to the accident is critical in a personal injury case.
Step 5: Consult an Accident Lawyer
Now, this is where I can’t stress enough the importance of consulting a good accident lawyer. These cases can be complex, and a skilled personal injury lawyer will know how to navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and represent your interests. They will also understand the intricacies of car accident cases, especially when it involves a left turn.
Step 6: Negotiate with the Insurance Company
Your lawyer will help you with this one. Insurance companies can be tough to deal with. They often try to settle for less than what you deserve. Having a lawyer negotiate on your behalf can lead to a much higher settlement.
Step 7: If Necessary, Take Your Case to Court
Sometimes negotiations don’t work out. In that case, you might have to go to court. This is where your lawyer will truly shine. They’ll present the evidence, possibly including that police report we talked about earlier, and argue why you should win the left turn accident case.
Okay, folks, there you have it. A roadmap on how to win a left turn accident case. Remember, it’s important to keep a level head and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
Now for the most important part: If you need help navigating the aftermath of a left turn collision, don’t hesitate to reach out to Arnona Rose. With a wealth of experience in car accident cases, especially those involving left turns, Arnona is the advocate you need. Plus, you can take advantage of a free consultation to discuss the details of your case. Trust me, you don’t want to go through this alone.
Until next time, drive safely and know your rights!
Contact Arnona Rose today for a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to do a good left turn?
Making a good and safe left turn is an essential skill for every driver. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate left turns confidently and safely:
1. Plan Ahead: Anticipate where you’ll be making your left turn and get into the left lane well in advance. Avoid last-minute lane changes.
2. Slow Down: As you approach the intersection, start to slow down. This gives you better control and more time to assess the situation.
3. Use Your Turn Signal: Engage your left turn signal to let other drivers know your intention to make a left turn. Do this at least 100 feet before the turn.
4. Look for Traffic Signs and Signals: Pay attention to any traffic lights, signs, or pavement markings that might affect your turn. For instance, some intersections have a designated left turn lane with its own traffic signal.
5. Check Traffic: Before making the turn, it’s crucial to check for oncoming traffic. Look to the left, right, and then left again to ensure it’s safe. Be especially wary of oncoming vehicles that might be turning right, as well as pedestrians and cyclists.
6. Check Blind Spots: Quickly check your left side mirror and blind spot before you start to turn.
7. Yield to Oncoming Traffic: If there is oncoming traffic, you must yield the right-of-way. If you have a green arrow, this means you have the right-of-way; however, always double-check that oncoming traffic is stopped.
8. Turn with Caution: Once it’s safe, turn left. Be sure to take the turn at an appropriate speed (usually slower than you think), and turn into the leftmost lane. Do not cut the corner too sharply or swing wide into other lanes.
9. Accelerate Smoothly: Once you have completed the turn, smoothly accelerate to match the flow of traffic.
10. Adjust Position: If you need to be in a different lane after the turn, use your turn signal, check your mirrors and blind spot, and then move over when it’s safe.
11. Stay Calm and Focused: Remaining calm and focused will help you make better judgments during your left turn.
Remember that practice makes perfect. If you’re a new driver or find left turns particularly challenging, consider practicing in a quiet area with less traffic until you feel more confident. And, always adhere to traffic laws and signals; they are there for everyone’s safety.
What is an unprotected left turn?
An unprotected left turn refers to a scenario where a driver making a left turn at an intersection does not have a dedicated left-turn signal (a green arrow) to guide them. Instead, the driver has to yield to oncoming traffic and make the left turn only when it is safe to do so.
In an unprotected left turn situation, the driver usually faces a standard green light, a flashing yellow arrow, or no traffic light at all. Here’s what each situation means:
1. Standard Green Light: When faced with a standard green light, the driver must yield to oncoming traffic. The left turn can only be made once there is a safe gap in the oncoming traffic and no pedestrians are crossing.
2. Flashing Yellow Arrow: A flashing yellow arrow indicates that left turns are allowed, but the driver must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. The driver must wait for a safe gap in traffic before making the turn.
3. No Traffic Light: At intersections without traffic lights, the driver must yield to oncoming traffic and wait for a safe opportunity to make the left turn.
Unprotected left turns require a higher level of caution and judgment compared to protected left turns, where a green arrow signal provides the driver with the right-of-way. It’s essential to carefully assess the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles and be aware of pedestrians and cyclists before proceeding with an unprotected left turn.