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Car accidents happen every day in Phoenix, but some of the most dangerous and contested crashes involve left turns. Whether you were making a left turn or were hit by a driver turning left, these collisions can result in severe injuries and complex legal battles.
At Torgenson Law, we help Phoenix residents who have been injured in left-turn accidents seek the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a left-turn crash, you need an experienced legal team that will fight for your rights.
Before discussing how we can assist you, it is important to understand why left-turn accidents happen, who may be liable, and what steps you should take after a collision.
Left-turn accidents are among the most common types of crashes at intersections. They frequently occur when a driver misjudges the speed of oncoming traffic or fails to yield the right-of-way. Because these collisions often happen at high speeds and involve a direct impact to the side of a vehicle, they can result in serious injuries and the severity of these injuries can lead to long-term medical complications, costly treatments, and significant changes in a victim’s daily life. There are several factors contribute to the dangers of left-turn accidents, including:
In Arizona, drivers making left turns at intersections must yield to oncoming traffic unless they have a green arrow. Many left-turn accidents happen when a driver misjudges the gap between vehicles, turns too soon, or assumes the other driver will stop. Even a slight miscalculation can result in a high-impact collision, leaving little time for either driver to react and avoid the crash.
Phoenix roads are often congested, and some drivers take risks to avoid delays. A driver may attempt to beat a yellow light by accelerating through the intersection, leading to a high-speed collision. The faster a vehicle is traveling at the time of impact, the more severe the injuries are likely to be, especially in crashes involving smaller passenger cars and large SUVs or trucks.
Left-turning drivers sometimes have a limited view of oncoming traffic, especially when larger vehicles block their line of sight. This can lead to miscalculations about when it is safe to turn. Poor weather conditions, glare from the sun, or poorly placed traffic signals can further reduce visibility, increasing the chances of a dangerous misjudgment.
Using a phone, adjusting the radio, or being otherwise distracted can lead to delayed reaction times. A driver who is not fully focused on the road may not see an oncoming vehicle before making a left turn. Even a brief lapse in attention can have devastating consequences, as left-turn accidents often happen in just a matter of seconds.
Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to judge distance and speed. An intoxicated driver may make an unsafe left turn, causing a collision. Even small amounts of alcohol or certain prescription medications can slow reaction times and impair judgment, making it far more difficult for a driver to assess when it is safe to turn.
Understanding why these accidents happen is crucial when determining fault. While the left-turning driver is often held responsible, there are situations where other factors contribute to the crash. Establishing liability requires a careful examination of the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Determining fault in a left-turn accident is not always straightforward. While Arizona law generally holds that the driver making the left turn must yield to oncoming traffic, liability can depend on several factors.
In most cases, the driver making the left turn is responsible for the accident. If they failed to yield, turned without enough space, or were distracted, they may be liable for the damages.
There are situations where the driver traveling straight through an intersection may share responsibility for the crash. If they were speeding, ran a red light, or were distracted, they could be found partially or fully at fault.
Sometimes, other factors contribute to a left-turn accident. For example, a traffic signal malfunction or poor road design could place some liability on a city or government agency. In other cases, a defective vehicle part, such as faulty brakes, may mean a manufacturer is responsible.
Arizona follows comparative negligence laws, meaning that fault can be divided between multiple parties. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation.
Because left-turn collisions often involve significant force, injuries can be severe. Some of the most common injuries include:
If you have been injured in a left-turn accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be obvious right away but can worsen over time.
Victims of left-turn accidents may be entitled to compensation for their losses. The amount recoverable depends on the severity of the injuries, the financial impact of the accident, and the emotional toll it has taken. Compensation typically falls into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in certain cases, punitive damages.
Economic damages cover the direct financial losses resulting from the accident. Medical expenses are a significant part of these damages, including costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care necessary for recovery.
Lost wages are also a major factor, particularly if the injuries prevent the victim from returning to work for an extended period or permanently impact earning potential. Additionally, economic damages include the cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle damaged in the accident, along with any other out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash.
Not all losses from a left-turn accident are financial. Many victims experience significant physical and emotional suffering that affects their overall well-being. Pain and suffering compensation accounts for the physical discomfort and long-term impact of the injuries. Emotional distress damages address the psychological effects of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can linger long after physical injuries have healed.
Loss of enjoyment of life is another important consideration, as some victims find themselves unable to participate in hobbies, social activities, or family events as they once did due to the lasting effects of their injuries.
In certain cases, punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault driver’s actions were especially reckless or intentional. These damages are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.
Situations involving extreme negligence, such as driving under the influence or engaging in reckless speeding, may warrant punitive damages to hold the responsible party fully accountable.
Navigating a left-turn accident claim can be complex, particularly when insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the victim. Without legal representation, accident victims may struggle to recover the full compensation they deserve. At Torgenson Law, we have extensive experience handling left-turn accident cases and know how to build a strong claim on behalf of our clients. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking the case to court, our firm is committed to protecting the rights of those injured in Phoenix car accidents.
A thorough investigation is crucial in determining fault and proving liability. Our legal team collects key evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage. In cases involving commercial vehicles, we examine black box data, which can provide insight into the driver’s speed and braking patterns before the collision.
If necessary, we work with accident reconstruction specialists to analyze the scene and establish exactly how the crash occurred. By compiling strong evidence, we can demonstrate negligence and hold the responsible party accountable.
Insurance companies often attempt to reduce their liability by offering low settlements or disputing fault. Many victims accept these initial offers, unaware that they are entitled to far more compensation.
At Torgenson Law, we handle all negotiations with insurance companies to ensure our clients are not pressured into an unfair settlement. We present clear evidence of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, to fight for the maximum recovery possible. Our firm knows the tactics insurers use to devalue claims, and we do not back down when advocating for our clients.
While many left-turn accident cases are settled through negotiations, some require litigation to secure fair compensation. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we are fully prepared to take the case to trial. Our attorneys have the experience and resources necessary to present a compelling case before a judge and jury.
We work closely with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and financial analysts to demonstrate the full impact of the accident on our client’s life. If going to court is the best path forward, we will fight aggressively to achieve the best possible outcome.
Torgenson Law is dedicated to standing up for accident victims and ensuring they are not taken advantage of by insurance companies. Our firm understands the challenges that come with recovering from a serious accident, and we are here to handle the legal process so our clients can focus on healing.
Taking the right steps after a left-turn accident can protect your health, strengthen your legal claim, and improve your chances of recovering compensation. If you have been involved in a crash, follow these steps to safeguard your rights.
Reporting the accident to law enforcement is critical. Officers will create an official accident report that includes key details such as witness statements, traffic conditions, and any citations issued. This report can serve as valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Obtain the other driver’s name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information. If the vehicle involved is a commercial vehicle, be sure to note the company name and any identifying details. This information will be necessary when filing an insurance claim or legal action.
Even if you feel fine, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time. Prompt medical care not only ensures your well-being but also creates documentation that links your injuries to the accident.
If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Collecting this evidence immediately after the crash can help establish fault and support your case. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information in case their testimony is needed later.
Be careful about what you say at the accident scene and when speaking with insurance companies. Do not admit fault or speculate about what happened. Even casual statements can be used against you later, so it is best to let investigators determine liability based on the evidence.
The sooner you seek legal representation, the stronger your case will be. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Torgenson Law today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a left-turn car accident in Phoenix, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies can quickly become overwhelming, but you have legal options. At Torgenson Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
With years of experience handling complex car accident cases, we understand the tactics insurance companies use to undervalue claims. Our firm fights aggressively to secure the maximum compensation possible, whether through negotiations or in court. From the moment you reach out to us, we will provide straightforward legal guidance, conduct a thorough investigation, and handle every aspect of your case.
Call us today at 602-726-0747 for a free consultation, or reach out to us online. There are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing and moving forward.
