As many drivers in the Greater Los Angeles area know all too well, making a left turn at a light without a left turn arrow can be a challenge. Many times, cars are “forced” to make the turns as the light is turning red, or in some cases, is already red. Not surprisingly, this can lead to a large number of automobile accidents; many of which result in serious injuries. So the question is, s a car making a left turn always at fault in an accident?
Is a Car Making a Left Turn Always at Fault in an Accident
Generally speaking, a car making a left turn is almost always liable to a car coming straight in the other direction, if the light is green for the driver heading straight. As with many aspects of personal injury law, there are exceptions.
Exceptions to this near-automatic liability can exist if:
- the car going straight was going too fast
- the car going straight went through a red light
- the left-turn car began its turn when it was safe but something unexpected happened which made it have to slow down or stop its turn
Contributing factors aside, California traffic laws clearly state that the car making the left turn must wait until it can safely complete the turn before moving in front of oncoming traffic. Also on your side if you are the victim of a left turn accident is the location of the damage on your vehicle. In most instances, the damage on your car makes it nearly impossible for the negligent driver to allege that the accident happened in some way other than during a left turn. With the help of an experienced auto accident attorney, you should be able to prove that the other driver is at fault and seek financial compensation for the injuries you and/or your passengers suffered and property damage to your vehicle.
We know that driving in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley can be tough. With the help of personal injury attorney Barry P. Goldberg and his experienced team, you can feel confident knowing that you are receiving the legal assistance you deserve.
To discuss the potential financial recovery associated with an auto accident you were involved in, contact San Fernando Valley car accident attorney Barry P. Goldberg today.
