Injured by a driver turning left? Contact the Adley Law Firm today!
Discuss your next steps, compensation and recovery options with an experienced Houston lawyer
Left turn accidents are among the most common and dangerous types of collisions on Houston’s busy streets. These accidents frequently occur at stop signs, intersections with red or yellow lights, and when vehicles are turning onto side roads. The nature of left turns inherently creates a higher risk of accidents because they require crossing multiple lanes of traffic. When combined with the fast-paced nature of Houston’s roads, distracted driving, and driver error, left turn accidents can result in serious injuries, significant property damage, and complex legal disputes.
Where Left Turn Accidents Happen
Left turn accidents are particularly prevalent in high-traffic areas like busy intersections, but they can also happen in less congested locations, such as residential side streets. At intersections, accidents often occur when drivers attempt to make a left turn across oncoming traffic at red or yellow lights or when yielding at stop signs. These scenarios require drivers to assess the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, which can lead to errors in judgment.
Left turns onto side roads also pose a danger, especially when drivers fail to signal their intentions, assume they have enough time to make the turn, or misjudge the speed of an approaching vehicle. Houston’s urban sprawl, combined with its mix of highways, residential streets, and business districts, creates a high potential for these types of accidents, particularly during rush hour or in poor weather conditions.
Why Left Turn Accidents Happen
The primary cause of left turn accidents is driver error, though a variety of factors contribute to these collisions. Many accidents occur because drivers:
- Fail to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic.
- Misjudge the speed or distance of an approaching vehicle.
- Attempt to “beat the light” at an intersection when the light is turning yellow.
- Become distracted by their phone, passengers, or other in-vehicle activities.
- Are impaired by alcohol or drugs, which reduces reaction time and judgment.
In many cases, left turn accidents are severe because of the speeds involved. A vehicle making a left turn may be struck directly on its side by an oncoming car traveling at high speed, creating a significant risk of injury or fatality. Passengers seated on the side of the turning car often suffer the most severe injuries in these T-bone or broadside collisions.
What to Do If You’re Cut Off by a Left-Turning Driver
If you are a driver who is cut off by someone making a left turn, it’s critical to take immediate steps to protect your safety and your ability to seek compensation later. First, if you can do so safely, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic to avoid further collisions. Call 911 to report the accident, and request medical assistance if you or anyone else is injured. Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Gather as much information as possible at the scene, including the contact information of the other driver, license plate numbers, and the details of any witnesses who saw the accident. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Finally, do not admit fault or make statements about the accident to the other driver or their insurance company until you consult with an experienced car accident attorney.
Determining Fault in a Left Turn Accident
In most left turn accidents, the turning driver is presumed to be at fault because they are required to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. However, there are exceptions. For example, if the oncoming driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was otherwise driving negligently, they may share some of the fault for the collision.
Proving that you are not at fault requires strong evidence, including:
- Eyewitness statements from people who saw the accident.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage of the collision.
- The police report, which often contains an officer’s assessment of fault.
- Accident reconstruction, which uses the position of the vehicles, skid marks, and other physical evidence to determine what happened.
An experienced Houston car accident attorney from the Adley Law Firm can investigate your case thoroughly, collect the evidence needed to prove you were not at fault, and build a compelling argument for your claim.
Getting Compensation for Injuries
If you were injured in a left turn accident caused by another driver, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In Texas, the settlement process begins with filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This claim will outline your injuries and financial losses, including costs for emergency care, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
The insurance company will likely attempt to minimize your compensation or argue that you were partially at fault for the accident. An attorney can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and take your case to court.
The average settlement for car accident cases in Texas varies widely depending on the severity of the injuries, the amount of medical expenses, and the degree of fault. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars for minor injuries to hundreds of thousands or even millions for severe or life-altering injuries.
Paying Medical Bills After an Accident
One of the most pressing concerns for accident victims is how to pay medical bills while waiting for a settlement. If you have personal injury protection (PIP) or MedPay coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, these can cover medical expenses regardless of fault. Additionally, health insurance can help cover costs, although you may need to reimburse your insurer from your eventual settlement.
If the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may need to rely on your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. The Adley Law Firm can help you explore all available options to ensure your medical expenses are covered.
How the Adley Law Firm Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a left turn accident in Houston can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The Adley Law Firm has decades of experience helping accident victims recover millions in compensation. Our team will handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a left turn accident, contact the Adley Law Firm today for a free consultation. Call us at (713) 999-8669 or fill out our online form to learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—your recovery starts here.
