Left-Turn Collisions

What Makes A Left Turn Across Traffic Dangerous?

A left turn requires a driver to cross oncoming traffic, and, in some cases, this means crossing multiple lanes of traffic. Thus, the driver needs to accurately judge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles and find a safe gap before turning. With many vehicles to consider, the chances of the driver making a mistake can be high.

Moreover, some drivers have a difficult time finding a safe gap at unprotected left turns. These turns do not show a green left-turn arrow on a traffic signal to grant exclusive right-of-way to turn. Instead, they show a solid green light, which requires a turning driver to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and find a gap to turn. Without a protective signal, a driver may face more risks. Consequently, unprotected left-turn accidents are not uncommon. 

Left turns across traffic also put pedestrians in danger. Some drivers are so focused on oncoming vehicles that they fail to notice pedestrians. When they find a gap to turn, they might accelerate, which can lead to them hitting a pedestrian.

Additionally, a left-turn driver can have limited visibility. A large truck, parked car, their vehicle’s A-pillar, and other obstructions may block their view of oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and traffic signals. Limited visibility substantially increases the chances of side-impact crashes and head-on collisions.

How Commercial Trucks Increase The Risks Of Turning Left

When a left-turning smaller vehicle shares the road with a truck, the risks of an accident can increase. The driver of the smaller vehicle may have limited visibility due to the large size of the truck. They may be unable to see what’s behind or next to the truck, which means it may be impossible for them to accurately judge the distance and speed of oncoming cars.

Factors Involved In Left-Turn Collisions

Various factors are involved in left-turn collisions. 

These include:

• Recognition errors: When a driver fails to assess a situation properly to react accordingly to a left-turn, they may cause an accident. This can happen due to internal distractions, like using a phone or adjusting vehicle controls, external distractions, like looking at billboards, misjudgment of speed and distance, and inadequate surveillance, such as focusing only on one direction of traffic.
• Decision errors: A driver can make a poor decision about how to react to a driving situation or hazard at a left turn. For example, when they fail to yield, drive despite not having a safe gap, misjudge another car’s speed, drive too fast for road conditions/weather/curves, or make false assumptions of other drivers’ actions.
• Performance errors: Some drivers make mistakes while trying to control their vehicle at a left turn, which can lead to accidents. Examples include poor directional control and overcompensating (reacting too strongly to a turning vehicle by suddenly braking or jerking the steering wheel too hard).
• Non-performance errors: Failing to perform a necessary action at a left turn, for example, not braking on time, or steering away from an obstacle, can cause an accident. 
• Vehicle-related factors: Some left-turn collisions are caused by vehicle-related factors, such as brake failure, steering issues, and blowout tires.
• Environmental-related factors: Adverse weather conditions, obstructed views, poorly designed road elements, and poor lighting are environmental-related factors that can contribute to a left-turn accident.

Understanding crash causes is crucial, as it helps in the development of preventive measures, such as preventing SUV rollovers on the road and other types of accidents. Being adequately informed helps drivers make safe decisions.

In Colorado, Can You Turn Left On Red?

According to Colorado law, a driver can turn left on a red light when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, unless prohibited by a sign. A driver should also stop if there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk.

Why Choose Our Left-Turn Collision Law Firm? 

Bachus & Schanker is led by top-rated left-turn collision attorneys recognized among the best in Colorado. With decades of experience and thousands of cases handled within Colorado and nationwide, our team brings a proven track record of results to every case. They have represented clients in accident cases involving complex left-turn collisions and liability disputes across Colorado and nationwide.

At our firm, hands-on case management and personalized attention are central to how cases are handled. Attorneys remain directly involved throughout the process, with a focus on responsiveness, attention to detail, and clear communication at every stage of the case.

The benefits of working with our legal team include:

• Left-turn collision cases taken on a contingency fee basis – no legal fees unless we win your case 
• Support of our victim advocates team 
• Personalized attention from attorneys who understand left-turn accidents law 
• Proven track record of maximizing settlements and verdicts for clients 
• Experience handling cases in Colorado and across the United States

When you need experienced legal representation after a left-turn accident, choose Bachus & Schanker, recognized as some of the best left-turn collision lawyers in Colorado.

Liability In Left-Turn Collisions

Determining fault in car accidents involving left turns is essential. This helps establish who needs to compensate the other.

In Colorado, the driver making the turn is usually the first party to be considered liable in a left-turn collision. This is because C.R.S. 42-4-702 requires a driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left to yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction, cyclists, and pedestrians. By yielding, the driver can prevent an accident.

Nonetheless, an oncoming driver may also make a mistake that contributes to an accident, such as speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted or drunk. Evidence, such as photos and videos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony from an accident reconstructionist, can tell if an oncoming driver was negligent. 

If a left-turn collision is caused by a vehicle defect, the manufacturer can be held liable for the damages incurred.

Colorado uses a comparative negligence system. Therefore, fault can be shared if more than one party acted negligently. The fault of the party who wants to recover damages should not be as great as the negligence of the person against whom recovery is sought. Their percentage of fault should be less than 50% to be compensated.

Potential Compensation After A Left-Turn Collision

If you are injured in a left-turn collision, you may be eligible for compensation. You could be compensated for:

• Economic damages: These are quantifiable financial losses, like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Ensure you keep records of your medical expenses, pay stubs, tax returns, and invoices for repairs or replacement to damaged property.
• Non-economic damages: These are losses that are difficult to put a dollar amount on, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of consortium. A pain journal, witness testimony, and expert testimony can help show such damages.
• Punitive damages: If you can prove the other party’s action involved fraud, malice, or willful and wanton conduct, you may be able to claim punitive damages.

An auto accident lawyer can help you build a strong case to receive maximum compensation.

Why Choose Bachus & Schanker For Left-Turn Collision Cases?

At Bachus & Schanker, we are committed to helping injured victims fight for their rights. Our team of 32 lawyers and more than 100 staff members works closely to provide a personal approach to all cases. 

When you work with us after being involved in a left-turn collision, you can expect a team dedicated to maximizing your compensation. We will help you receive a settlement that covers your past and future damages. In addition, we will handle negotiations with insurance companies and help with evidence gathering, allowing you to focus on recovering.

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