A busy intersection can be a confusing place for a driver, as well as a common place to be hit by another car.
Every year, many car accidents are caused by drivers attempting to make a left turn across an intersection. Such crashes are often serious and may cause severe injuries and extensive property damage. Our St. Louis car accident attorney informs us that if you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver making a left turn, you may be able to claim compensation for your losses.
Making a Left Turn Across Oncoming Traffic
A left turn is undoubtedly the most dangerous of all maneuvers that a driver can attempt. A driver trying to make a left turn needs to be extremely cautious as the left turning vehicle is often turning in the lane of traffic for other motor vehicles. If the driver fails to execute the left turn properly and this leads to an accident, there are certain traffic rules regarding fault that come into play.
The liability for fault is established based on a number of factors that led up to the collision. For example, if you ram into another car immediately in front of you that is making an improper or illegal left turn, the driver of the other car may be strictly liable for the accident. However, in some cases, both drivers share responsibility, but you may still be able to recover a part of the damages that resulted from the accident.
Establishing Liability in Left Turn Accidents
When establishing liability in a car accident caused by an improper left turn, there are a number of considerations that are taken into account. It is presumed that the driver was negligent when it is proven that he or she attempted a left turn and crossed the center line when the accident occurred. To establish liability in a left-turn accident, Missouri law takes into consideration the following.
- Responded appropriately to the green traffic signal when attempting the left turn.
- While making a left turn, the driver took steps to ensure that he or she did not endanger the other vehicles.
- Properly signaled the intent to make a left turn at the intersection.
- Gave right of way to bicyclists and pedestrians crossing at the intersection.
- Did not pose a danger to the vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
- Gave opportunity for safe execution of the left turn.
St. Louis Car Accident Attorney
Establishing liability in a left turn accident could be a very difficult thing to do. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a left-turn accident, you do not have to trouble yourself with the intricacies of fault and liability pertaining to your involvement in the crash. It is in your best interest to consult a St. Louis car accident lawyer. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242. We will educate you on your rights and help safeguard them. You have the right to receive fair compensation for any injuries and property damage you have suffered in the accident.