Left-Turn Accidents
When someone is making a left turn, they need to be aware of other vehicles. They must yield to oncoming drivers unless they have a green turn light. Unfortunately, not all drivers are cautious. They sometimes turn without looking or expect other traffic to stop for them. All too frequently, the result is a car accident.
In Fresno, there were 1,041 people killed and injured in car crashes. Many of those crashes were left-turn accidents. If you’re a victim of such a collision, you could seek compensation. Often, the driver making the turn is liable for the accident. Here at Grossman Law Offices, we have the knowledge and skill needed to get you the money you deserve.
California Left Turn Laws
Most left-turn accidents are the fault of the driver making the turn. This is because of California driving laws. In the state, a vehicle turning or making a u-turn must yield to all traffic coming from the other direction. Therefore, it’s the turning driver’s responsibility to wait until the traffic is clear to make the turn.
That said, not all turning drivers are responsible for accidents. Sometimes, there is shared fault. If you file a lawsuit against the other driver, it’s your attorney’s responsibility to prove they were negligent.
Determining the Cause
Before your lawyer files a claim, they will need to determine the cause of the accident. At times, the turning driver is distracted and doesn’t look for oncoming cars. If there is a traffic light with a turn signal, they may ignore a red light and turn anyway. Or, they might misjudge how fast your vehicle is approaching.
In any of the above cases, the turning driver is responsible for the accident. Their negligence was a contributing factor, and they could have prevented a collision if they exercised their duty of care to other drivers.
Sometimes, another party is responsible for the accident. For instance, a faulty part could force the driver to make a left turn. In this case, the parts manufacturer could be to blame for the accident. If a driver was acting within their duties as an employee, the accident could be the fault of the employer. You may even be able to hold a mechanic shop responsible for the incident. This is often the case when they fail to fix an issue or notify the driver of a problem.
Comparative Negligence
You could be partially to blame for the collision. However, this does not mean you don’t have a personal injury claim. In California, comparative negligence allows drivers to file lawsuits even if they share some of the blame for the incident.
If this happens to you, then you should be aware that the value of your case will be affected. You can’t receive the full damages for your injuries and emotional pain. According to the law, you can only receive a percentage of the money.
What Injuries are Associated with Left-Turn Accidents?
After an accident, you can have a long list of problems. Your injuries could be painful, you might not be able to work, and your vehicle could be damaged. Typically, the injuries associated with this type of accident are severe. All of the following injuries are common after a left-turn accident:
1. Head Injury
This type of injury can change your life drastically. When a head injury is serious, the victim could suffer from memory loss, decreased cognitive function, and other struggles. They could require permanent care from a healthcare professional.
2. Shoulder Pain
In Fresno left-turn collisions, the oncoming vehicle is usually T-boned. This places the impact on the driver’s side. As a result, they can experience shoulder injuries.
3. Internal Injuries
Depending on the force of your crash, you could have internal injuries. These can occur from the seat belt or airbag. If untreated, internal injuries can be fatal.
4. Neck or Back Injuries
Often, the force of a collision results in neck or back pain. Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries often affect accident victims. The results can lead to chronic pain or require surgery.
Getting Compensation for Your Accident
The medical bills from your accident can cause debt. At the very least, they can be a strain on your finances. But your accident doesn’t need to destroy your life. If you file an insurance claim or a lawsuit against a negligent driver, you can receive money for your injuries and more.
In addition to getting money for your medical bills, you can also recover your lost wages. If your ability to work was affected, you can recover money for your lost earning capacity. Individuals with serious injuries can also recover damages for pain and suffering.
By speaking with a car accident lawyer in Fresno, you can learn more about the compensation process. You can also get the guidance you need to receive a fair payout for your case. If you’re ready to take action, contact Grossman Law Offices.
