Arizona Car Accident Attorneys: Left-hand turns
Arizona car accident attorneys: Here to help you in the event of an accident involving a left hand turn.
When an automobile accident occurs with a vehicle that is attempting a left turn, the injuries and damages can be catastrophic. In many cases, automobiles will be traveling at a high rate of speed when they collide with the automobiles attempting to make left turns. High impact collisions such as these often result in serious and fatal injuries. If you or a loved one is involved in an accident involving a left turner, it is important to seek the advice of experienced Arizona car accident attorneys to assess your situation and determine which course of action will result in you getting the just compensation you deserve.
Accidents involving left turns can be complex, Arizona car accident attorneys know the issues that you face with these types of accidents. Often, without witnesses, it is not easy to determine which party is at fault. Thus, it is imperative to seek out experienced Arizona car accident attorneys that are knowledgeable and experienced in handling left turn accidents.
The law recognizes that a left turn is a dangerous maneuver, because the left turning vehicle enters lanes of traffic for other vehicles. When it comes to left turns, the law sets forth certain rules regarding the responsibilities of drivers. The Arizona statute that deals with left turns is ARS § 28-772. It states:
“The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle that is approaching from the opposite direction and that is within the intersection or so close to the intersection as to constitute an immediate hazard. “
In other words, a driver is not allowed to turn left at an intersection if the vehicle approaching from the opposite could end up colliding with your automobile. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHAT THE COLOR OF THE LIGHT IS AT THE TIME THE COLLSION OCCURS. Even if the vehicle runs a red light and collides with your car, you may still be liable if the other vehicle was so close to the intersection as to constitute an “immediate hazard. ” Arizona places the burden on the driver turning left — make sure that the cars coming at you are stopping before you cross their lanes of travel. Wait a few extra moments.
So what if the cars behind you are honking. YOU must make sure that all cars are stopping before you turn. The statute can be very confusing and is often misapplied. Therefore, it is critical that you consult with experienced Arizona car accident attorneys to determine how the statute applies to your situation and whether or not you are in any way at fault.
The left turn is one of the most dangerous maneuvers a motorist makes, and thus great caution must always be undertaken. Serious injuries and substantial damages may occur as a result of an accident involving a left turner. If the unfortunate should occur, and you or a loved one in involved in an accident involving a left turn, it is important to consult with experienced Arizona car accident attorneys.
Since left turn accidents are especially complex, it is imperative that you contact experienced Arizona car accident attorneys today to assist you in your case. For a free, no-obligation consultation, call Zachar Law Firm at (602) 494-4800 or visit www.ZacharAssociates.com.
