What to Know About Left-Hand Turn Accidents in Tampa

While car crashes can and do happen just about anywhere, certain locations are known for being more dangerous to motorists than others. Intersections, where an estimated 40 percent of all car crashes occur, are one of these areas. Although intersections are the site of many different types of collisions, a large portion of them occur when a driver incorrectly tries to make a left-hand turn. Unfortunately, the consequences of these accidents are often severe, especially when the victims are pedestrians or cyclists.

Left-Hand Turn Accidents Lead to Serious Injuries 

Although all car accidents are potentially dangerous, left-hand turns are particularly hazardous, especially at intersections. This is due to the fact that turning left requires drivers to cross a lane of traffic, while also requiring them to keep an eye on vehicles from both directions. Properly making a left-hand turn requires clear judgment and swift movement, which may not be possible when a driver isn’t paying enough attention. Unfortunately, being distracted when making these kinds of maneuvers tends to lead to serious injuries, largely because oncoming traffic is usually traveling faster than the turning vehicle. The force of a collision between two such vehicles can result in serious injuries. Furthermore, the sides of a vehicle are also the least protected parts, so vehicles that are struck while turning left are more likely to sustain serious injuries.

The kinds of injuries that a person suffers in a left-hand turn accident will mostly be dictated by which vehicle he or she was traveling in at the time of the crash. For instance, a motorist who is struck while turning left is more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury from striking the window, or injuries to the upper arm or clavicle. Drivers who strike a vehicle, on the other hand, are more protected, so their injuries are typically less severe. Of course, cyclists and pedestrians who are struck sustain the worst injuries, often reaching the level of catastrophic.

Driver Error When Making a Left-Hand Turn 

Most left-hand turn accidents involve some sort of driver error, such as:

• An illegal traffic maneuver, such as a failure to yield;
• Driving while distracted;
• Driving under the influence;
• Improperly gauging the actions of other motorists, such as speed or intent to turn; and
• Obstructed views.

Although making these kinds of errors is dangerous for any driver, it is especially perilous in intersections when turning left.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today 

Left-hand turn accidents often lead to significant vehicle damage and serious injuries. Fortunately, injured parties who can prove that someone else’s error caused their accident could be eligible for compensation for their medical bills and vehicle repair costs. Recovering these losses can, however, be complicated, with insurers often unwilling to accept responsibility for an accident. At Anderson & Anderson, our Tampa auto accident lawyers have the experience and resources to investigate your claim, explain your options, and if possible, pursue compensation on your behalf. To learn more, please call our office at 813-251-0072 today.

Sources: 

crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/811366

highways.dot.gov/research/research-programs/safety/intersection-safety