Left Turn Car Accidents in Chicago: What You Need to Know
by
Matthew Willens on Jul. 28, 2015
Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Car Accident Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: Left turns are one of the most dangerous maneuvers a driver has to make, because as soon as a vehicle turns to left, it enters the lane of oncoming traffic.
Left turns are one of the most dangerous maneuvers a driver has to make, because as soon as a vehicle turns to left, it enters the lane of oncoming traffic. If it enters at the wrong time a collision with another car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle and in rare cases a pedestrian becomes difficult to avoid. It is almost impossible for the speedy approaching traffic to stop suddenly at the intersection. These accidents are often serious and even fatal.
There can be
many possible reasons a left turn accident occurs. For example, the person in the
driver’s seat could be in a hurry to complete the left turn before traffic
light turned red. Or maybe they turn into the intersection before other vehicles
or those approaching from the other direction have cleared it. Sometimes the
automobiles coming straight also race to beat the red light or are driving too
fast in an inclement weather or on bad roads. In other cases, negligence and distraction contribute to a left hand turn accident.
Who is responsible?
In most cases, the legal responsibility of a left turn accident is accounted to carelessness of the driver who was trying to take the left turn. However, it may not be the same in all cases, so it is important to determine which party/person is at fault before addressing the issue of financial compensation that a victim seeks. The driver making a left turn will likely be held responsible if:
· The driver taking the left turn started the turn even when the traffic signal prohibited such a move.
· The driver did not signal his intention to make a left turn clearly before reaching the intersection.
· The driver miscalculated that the turn can be completed successfully without causing any harm to other traffic including those coming from the opposite direction.
· The driver did not give right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians crossing the intersection.
· Either of the drivers were distracted; could be busy texting or calling on smart phones.
· The traffic situation at the time of the accident was not fit for a left turn.
· The driver did not let the approaching vehicle clear the lane before entering the intersection.
· It was snowing, raining or the daylight was too dim for clear visibility. The driver’s line of vision was blocked by other vehicles.
The driver taking the turn sometimes claims that they gave a clear signal about his intended move. If you have been injured by a negligent driver an experienced auto wreck law can help you prove that the accident was indeed the result of the other driver's negligence.
If you have
incurred losses due to a left turn accident in Chicago, you should speak with a
top-rated Chicago car accident lawyer
immediately. It is important to discuss your case with a skilled legal hand
to ensure that you get compensated for your injuries and property damage.