Left turn car accidents in San Francisco are some of the worst, and they often cause serious injuries. These crashes occur when one vehicle is traveling straight through an intersection when another is making a left turn. When either of the drivers involved is negligent, they can end up causing an accident. Many people think that in these accidents, the driver making the left turn is always at fault, but that is not always the case, though. The driver heading straight through the intersection can also be found at fault. A San Francisco car accident lawyer can review the facts of the case and determine which driver was liable for the crash.
When the Car Turning Left is at FaultIt is true that in nearly every left turn accident case, the driver turning left is found at fault. This is because under California law, drivers turning left must yield to anyone heading straight through an intersection. These drivers are also required to use turn signals to indicate that they plan to turn. When they fail to do this, drivers can be found liable.
For example, if a driver wanted to make a left turn at an intersection but did not ensure that the way was clear and made the turn, he or she could crash into the other driver. In this instance, the driver turning left would be liable. However, even though drivers turning left are almost always found at fault, they are not always. If you are unsure who is at fault in your accident, a San Francisco car accident lawyer can help.
When Other Drivers are at FaultIt is true that drivers turning left have a responsibility to ensure the way is clear before making the turn. However, even when they do this, an accident can still occur due to another driver’s negligence. Drivers heading straight through the intersection must still ensure the way is clear and that it is safe to do so. They must also follow all traffic rules in order to prevent a crash.
For example, if the driver of the car heading straight through the intersection was speeding, then he or she may pass through the intersection sooner than the driver turning left could have predicted. Or, if the driver turning left waited until the light started to change and the safest move was to make the turn, the other driver could be found liable if he or she sped up to run the red light.
Injured in a Left Turn Accident? Call a Car Accident Attorney in San FranciscoAll car accidents come with their own complexities, but left turn car crashes are particularly challenging. You may face the bias of insurance companies, and not understand how to avoid the tricks they use to deny or reduce your settlement. If you have been hurt, call a car accident attorney in San Francisco at the Brod Law Firm. We have the experience necessary to investigate these crashes and collect evidence that can prove your claim to the insurance company. We will also hold them accountable for paying the full settlement you deserve. When you are injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, call us at (800) 427-7020 to schedule your free case evaluation.