Left-turn car accidents are some of the most dangerous crashes that happen on Washington DC roads. Whether you were the driver executing the turn or the one traveling straight, chances are you’re now dealing with challenging physical injuries and financial burdens. You may also have trouble recovering the compensation you need due to questions of fault or other legal issues.
If you sustained injuries in a left turn accident, you need a lawyer who understands the challenges of these cases and will fight on your behalf for fair compensation. The Washington DC left turn accident lawyers at Marks & Harrison can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you get the support you need for a full and speedy recovery. Our firm has represented injured people for over 100 years, and we’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and discuss your case. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
Who Is Normally At Fault in a Washington DC Left Turn Accident?
The driver making a left turn usually bears the blame for left turn accidents. This is because DC traffic laws generally require drivers turning left to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Oncoming vehicles have the right-of-way when going straight through an intersection or making a right turn. So, if a driver turning left fails to yield and causes a collision, they are usually responsible for the accident.
However, there may be exceptions, such as when the oncoming driver is speeding or runs a red light or if the driver turning left has a green left turn arrow. Your attorney will review the facts to determine who was at fault. Contact our Washington DC left turn accident attorney today.
Could Both Drivers Be At Fault for a Left Turn Accident?
Both drivers could be responsible for a left-turn accident. This can happen if the turning driver fails to yield while the oncoming driver is also doing something unsafe, like speeding or running a red light.
When both drivers share some of the blame, DC’s strict contributory negligence rule comes into play. Under this rule, if you are even slightly at fault for an accident, you cannot recover any compensation for your injuries or other losses. This means if both drivers are legally responsible for the crash, neither can recover compensation. This harsh rule makes it crucial to have a skilled Washington DC car accident lawyer who can fight efforts to shift blame and protect your right to compensation.
What Are Common Causes of Left Turn Accidents?
Left turn accidents often happen due to a mix of driver error and challenging road conditions. Understanding why these collisions occur can help you determine whether you have a viable claim against the other driver.
Some common causes of left turn accidents include:
- Failure to yield – The most common cause of left turn crashes is when the turning driver fails to yield to oncoming traffic. If a driver doesn’t leave enough room to safely turn, they may collide with a car coming toward them.
- Misjudging distance or speed – Drivers sometimes misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles, thinking they have enough time to complete a turn. This miscalculation can lead to a crash if the oncoming vehicle is closer or moving faster than the turning driver anticipated.
- Distracted driving – Distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting a GPS device can cause a driver to miss important cues, such as oncoming traffic or changing traffic lights.
- Obstructed views – Left turns at intersections can be tricky when other vehicles, objects, or poor visibility obstruct a driver’s view of oncoming traffic. This can lead to accidents if the driver cannot see an approaching vehicle in time.
- Running a red light – Sometimes, drivers making a left turn will go as the light turns red or just after, thinking they can beat any vehicles that now have the right-of-way. This risky behavior often results in collisions with cars that have already started to move on the green light.
What Types of Accidents Result from Failing to Yield When Turning Left?
Several types of crashes can occur when drivers don’t yield the right-of-way while turning left, each with its own set of risks and potential injuries. Contact our Washington DC left turn accident lawyer today.
T-Bone Accidents
One of the most common types of left-turn accidents is the T-bone collision. This happens when an oncoming vehicle hits the side of the car turning left while going through the intersection. T-bone collisions can be especially dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer less protection, often leading to severe injuries for the driver and passengers.
Head-On Collisions
Another frequent result of failing to yield is a head-on collision. Head-on crashes can occur when the turning vehicle crosses into the path of oncoming traffic, causing a direct impact. Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes due to the combined speed of both vehicles, which can lead to catastrophic injuries or deaths.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents can happen if the turning vehicle and the oncoming vehicle try to avoid a collision at the last moment. In these cases, the sides of the cars may scrape against each other, potentially causing loss of control and leading to secondary collisions with other vehicles or objects.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered for a Washington DC Left Turn Accident?
Your compensation for a left turn accident depends on your expenses, the severity and long-term impact of your injuries, and other factors. Working with a skilled attorney is the key to maximizing your compensation. They can protect your rights, gather evidence to support your claim, and handle the necessary legal procedures. With a lawyer’s help, you could seek compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income while you heal
- Reduced future earnings due to your injury
- Lower quality of life
- Pain and suffering
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Washington DC?
You have a limited window to file a lawsuit after sustaining injuries in a Washington DC left turn accident. In most cases, you have three years from the crash date to file a lawsuit, or else you lose your right to compensation. Contact an attorney right away so they can preserve essential evidence and help you pursue the money you need.
Contact a Washington DC Left Turn Accident Lawyer
At Marks & Harrison, we understand what’s at stake for you after a left turn accident and can enforce your rights at every step of the legal process. Contact us today or reach out online for a free case review with one of our DC car accident attorneys.
