A motorcycle may have the right-of-way, but if a car makes a left turn and does not see the motorcycle, the motorcyclist does not have adequate time to react, and the results can be devastating. Left-hand turn accidents account for 42 percent of motorcycle fatalities. They account for an even higher percentage of severe injuries. Motorcyclists surviving such a collision may suffer long-term or permanent impairment.
Left-hand turn accidents are among the most common and dangerous types of motorcycle crashes. Most take place due to driver error, not that of the motorcyclist. The driver is often speeding or driving while distracted, both traffic violations.
Most such accidents take place at intersections. Others occur when a driver makes a left turn into a side street or driveway and does not see the motorcycle approaching.
A motorcycle accident victim faces a long recovery. Medical bills pile up while the person can no longer work or care for loved ones. A Los Angeles, CA personal injury lawyer at Salamati Law can help during this difficult time and fight to help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Left Turn Accidents
A left-hand turn accident involving a motorcycle usually follows one of several scenarios. These are:
- Attempting to beat a traffic signal–The driver turns left to try to beat a light while a motorcyclist is legally proceeding through the intersection. The driver does not see the motorcyclist and slams into them.
- Illegally going through an intersection–The driver runs a stop sign or tries to make a left turn during a red light, with the same terrible results.
- Simply not seeing the motorcycle–A motorcycle is smaller and lower than other vehicles sharing the road and thus harder to see. The driver just does not see the motorcycle before impact.
- Underestimating speed –In situations where the driver did see the motorcycle, they underestimated the speed at which the motorcycle was traveling.
Partial Fault
While the overwhelming majority of left-hand turn motorcycle and car crashes are the driver’s fault, there are instances in which the motorcyclist is partly responsible. Even under these circumstances, the injured motorcyclist may receive compensation, lowered by their percentage of fault.
Motorcyclists may prove partly or wholly at fault if they were:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- In a left-turn lane going straight
- Under the influence
Reckless Driving
Left hand and other motorcycle crashes are also due to reckless driving. Such behavior includes the aforementioned speeding as well as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While anyone on the road is at risk due to reckless driving, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable because a motorcycle offers no protection whatsoever.
A reckless driving lawyer in Los Angeles can fight on your behalf to hold those drivers accountable for their negligent actions.
Protecting Yourself
When traveling via motorcycle through Southern California, take the following precautions to help avoid a left hand turn accident:
- Ride defensively –When going through an intersection, anticipate whether oncoming cars are making left turns, whether that turn is legal or not.
- Slow down at intersections –Since intersections are inherently dangerous for motorcyclists, always slow down while going through them so you can react if a car makes a sudden left turn.
- Make yourself seen –Black is a motorcyclist fashion choice, but wearing brighter colors increases the odds that a driver will see you. Always keep headlights on to increase visibility.
- Never assume a driver sees you –Stay vigilant.
- Pass on the left in limited situations –When on a road with many side streets or parking lots, do not pass on the left even if legal.
Contact a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you were injured in a left hand turn or any other type of motorcycle accident, contact an experienced LA motorcycle accident lawyer at Salamati Law today. Submit our online form or call or text us 24/7 to arrange a free, confidential consultation.
After reviewing your case, we will let you know your options. Because we work on a contingency basis, there is never a fee unless you receive compensation. Se Habla Espanol.
