Left turn accidents are some of the deadliest types of automobile accidents. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, left turns accounted for 22 percent of all fatal collisions in the United States in 2017.
It is important to understand why left-turn accidents are so deadly to avoid them and reduce the potential for injury or death.
The main reason that left turn accidents are so deadly is that they are often head-on collisions. When two cars collide head-on, the impact of the collision is much greater than if the cars were colliding with each other at an angle. As a result, the vehicles may be more likely to suffer severe damage, and the occupants of the vehicles are more likely to sustain serious injuries due to the increased force of the collision.
In addition, left-turn accidents often happen at high speeds. When drivers make left turns, they typically must cross the path of oncoming traffic. This means that they have to accelerate and enter the intersection quickly to make the turn. This can lead to drivers being unable to react fast enough when an oncoming car suddenly appears, leading to a collision.
Left turns are especially dangerous because they require a driver to cross the path of oncoming traffic. Drivers making left turns are responsible for yielding to oncoming vehicles, but many fail to do so. This can lead to a collision as oncoming traffic is not expecting the left-turning vehicle. In some cases, the oncoming vehicle does not have enough time to stop or slow down and ends up hitting the turning vehicle.
In addition to failing to yield, other common causes of left-turn accidents include:
- Distracted or impaired driving – Drivers who are not paying attention or who are impaired by drugs or alcohol may not be aware of oncoming traffic and can easily turn in front of them.
- Poor visibility – Weather conditions, such as fog or rain, can reduce visibility and cause drivers to misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic.
- Speed – If a driver is speeding, they may not be able to react in time when a vehicle turns in front of them.
Left-turn accidents can lead to severe injuries and even death. Common injuries resulting from a left-turn accident include broken bones, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. In some cases, a driver may also suffer from psychological trauma due to the incident.
By understanding why left turn accidents are so deadly, drivers can take steps to reduce the risk of being involved in one. This includes following the speed limits, being aware of oncoming traffic, and avoiding distractions while driving.
Additionally, drivers should be sure to take extra care when making left turns and take extra caution when crossing the path of oncoming traffic.
Finally, suppose you have been involved in a left-turn accident. In that case, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced accident lawyer to ensure that you are properly compensated for any injuries or damages that you have suffered.
Left Turns Are a Danger to Motorcyclists and Bicyclists
Left turns are perilous for motorcyclists and bicyclists because they are much less visible to other drivers.
Motorcyclists and bicyclists are often hidden in blind spots and may not be seen when a driver makes a left turn. This can result in an unsuspecting rider being hit by an oncoming vehicle.
In addition, since motorcyclists and bicyclists are not as well-protected as drivers in cars, they are more likely to be severely injured or even killed in a left-turn collision.
It’s important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings when making a left turn, especially when motorcyclists and bicyclists are on the road.
When making left turns, drivers should pay special attention and be aware of possible blind spots.
Additionally, drivers should always use their turn signals when turning, even if they believe the other vehicles on the road can see them.
This will help to alert motorcyclists and bicyclists that a driver is making a left turn and give them time to react and avoid the turn.
Drivers must also know the speed limit and obey traffic laws when making left turns. Drivers should be mindful of other vehicles on the road and not speed up or slow down too quickly when making a left turn. If a driver is speeding, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision with a motorcyclist or bicyclist.
Motorcyclists and bicyclists must also be cautious when riding on the road. Both should always wear a helmet and other protective gear and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
Motorcyclists and bicyclists should avoid blind spots and be prepared to take evasive action if they see a vehicle making a left turn.
Left turns are a common cause of accidents involving motorcyclists and bicyclists, and can be especially dangerous. Drivers and riders alike should always remain alert when on the road and be aware of potential hazards. By taking extra caution when making a left turn, drivers and riders can help to avoid a potential accident.
Left Turns and Pedestrians
As a pedestrian in Albuquerque, there is always a risk of being involved in an accident. One of the most common types of pedestrian accidents is a left turn accident. Left turn accidents occur when a driver turns left at an intersection, failing to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. These accidents can be incredibly dangerous, leading to serious injuries or even death.
Left turn accidents are especially dangerous for pedestrians because drivers making a left turn often fail to check for oncoming traffic or pedestrians. Drivers may be distracted or simply misjudge the speed of the oncoming traffic or pedestrians. Unfortunately, pedestrians are usually the ones who suffer the most in these types of accidents.
It is important for pedestrians to be aware of the risks of left-turn accidents and know what to do to stay safe. Pedestrians should always make sure to cross the street at designated crosswalks and use the sidewalks whenever possible. When crossing an intersection, pedestrians should be sure to look both ways and ensure that the driver of the vehicle turning left has seen them. Additionally, pedestrians should make sure to make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street to ensure that the driver is aware of their presence and will yield to them.
If a pedestrian is involved in a left turn accident, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if they do not feel injured. Additionally, they should contact a qualified Albuquerque pedestrian accident lawyer to help them get the compensation they deserve. An experienced lawyer can help pedestrians determine who is liable for the accident and help them get the compensation they need to pay for medical bills and other associated costs.
Left-turn accidents are a serious risk for pedestrians in Albuquerque, but with the right precautions, they can be avoided. Pedestrians should always make sure to cross the street at designated crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and make sure to make eye contact with the driver before crossing.
Additionally, if a pedestrian is involved in a left turn accident, they should seek legal representation to help them get the compensation they need.
Large Truck Left-Turn Accidents
Left-turn accidents involving large trucks can be particularly devastating. These vehicles, such as 18-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and amazon delivery trucks, are much larger than passenger vehicles and can cause immense damage when involved in a collision. The Albuquerque area is no stranger to these large truck left-turn accidents, which can cause serious injury or even death.
Left-turn accidents involving large trucks can occur for a variety of reasons, but often involve a driver’s failure to accurately gauge the speed of oncoming traffic or the distance between the two vehicles. When a large truck makes a left turn, it can easily block an entire lane of traffic, leaving other vehicles unable to pass. Additionally, these large vehicles have significant blind spots, making it difficult for the driver to accurately judge the road conditions and the speed of oncoming traffic.
Many of these left-turn accidents can be avoided with proper training and adherence to traffic rules. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has rules and regulations that truck drivers must follow to ensure their safety and the safety of other drivers. Drivers should also be aware of their own blind spots and the potential for collisions when making a left turn.
Unfortunately, the consequences of large truck left-turn accidents can be serious. Victims of a left-turn accident involving a commercial vehicle may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced accident lawyer can help victims assess their legal options and pursue a successful claim.
As experienced truck accident lawyers, we are committed to helping victims of large truck left-turn accidents recover the compensation they deserve. We understand these cases’ unique challenges and have the knowledge and experience to help victims obtain the maximum possible compensation for their losses. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive legal representation for all victims of large truck left-turn accidents in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Is the Left-Turn Driver Always At Fault?
When it comes to car accidents, there’s one question that often comes up: who’s at fault? In the case of a left-turn accident, the answer may seem straightforward – the driver making the left turn is usually at fault. But is this always the case? In reality, the answer is far more complex.
First, it’s important to understand the legal rules that govern left-turns. The driver making the left turn is obligated to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. The driver must also make sure that it’s safe to make the turn before attempting it. This means that the driver must be able to see any oncoming traffic and ensure that there is enough time and space to complete the turn safely.
However, it’s not always the left-turn driver’s fault. For example, if an oncoming car is speeding or driving recklessly, it may be considered the primary cause of the accident. In this case, the left-turn driver may still be held partially liable, but the oncoming driver may bear the burden of responsibility.
Other factors can also factor into who’s at fault for a left-turn accident. For example, if the left-turn driver fails to use their turn signal, this can be seen as negligence and can affect the case’s outcome. Similarly, if signs or traffic lights are not obeyed, this can also play a role in assigning fault.
The bottom line is that determining fault is not always straightforward when it comes to a left-turn accident. If you’ve been involved in such an accident, you should seek the advice of an experienced accident lawyer.
Seeking legal counsel if you or a loved one has been injured in a left-turn accident is important. At ABQ Accident Lawyer, we understand the complexities of car accident cases and can help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses. We understand the trauma and stress that an accident can cause, and we are here to help you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation.