Left Turn Accidents in Chicago
Left turn accidents in Chicago are some of the most common at intersections. They happen for many reasons. No matter if there is heavy congestion in the heart of the city for a parade, concert, or other event, every driver must follow the traffic rules.
When they do not do so, accidents happen. Consider why left turn accidents in Chicago happen and what to do about them. Then, speak with a Chicago accident lawyer about your case. Schedule your free consultation today.
Why Left Turn Accidents Happen in Chicago
Left-hand turns create a higher risk for accidents for a number of reasons. If you are turning left, or another driver is turning left towards you, it is essential to understand why the incident happened to know who is at fault. Common concerns include:
- Limited visibility: There are many times trees, cars parked along the roadside, or even buildings too close to the curb, create visual blocks. This makes it hard for drivers to see oncoming traffic. They turn right into it.
- Complex decision making: Left turns take more decisions in a shorter period of time. A driver must determine the distance and speed of the vehicles approaching, determine when to turn, and ensure they turn properly and quickly enough to avoid an accident. Mistakes lead to accidents.
- Impatience: Running a red light is a common cause of left-turn accidents. Drivers do not want to wait for the next light cycle, so they run it, often turning while others have the right of way.
- Failure to yield: In some cases, failure to yield accidents happen because the driver does not realize the other party has the right of way. One important factor is that Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-902) requires drivers turning left to yield to oncoming traffic.
- Distractions: Driver distractions, such as talking on the phone, eating or drinking, or dealing with others in the car, cause these accidents to happen.
Left turn accidents in Chicago require careful investigation to determine who is at fault and why. By working with our Chicago accident lawyers at Taxman, Pollock & Bekkerman, you gain insight into who is at fault and what your rights are in recovering damages.
Gathering Evidence in a Left Turn Accident in Chicago
One of the most important steps you can take after an accident like this is to call 911 to have police arrive at the scene. This allows for clear documentation of what occurred. Your attorney will seek additional information and evidence to build your case. This may include traffic camera footage, surveillance videos, witness statements, and dash camera footage. These details allow you to know who is at fault.
If the police or insurance company blame you for the accident, your attorney may use accident reconstruction experts to help demonstrate what really happened. This type of in-depth investigation can help you prove the accident was not your fault.
This proves critical in most complex cases. It is very common for both parties to believe they had the right of way. Evidence can be challenging. Decisions about who is at fault often come down to the evidence presented by skilled attorneys.
Hire an Attorney to Review Your Case
For every left-turn accident in Chicago, there is value in hiring an experienced attorney. Your lawyer will gather the evidence to demonstrate fault and build a claim that incorporates all of the losses available to you and is critical for you to recover. Call the office of Taxman, Pollock & Bekkerman today to schedule a free consultation.