Turning Accidents: How Do They Happen?

Car accidents involving turns are alarmingly common, and it’s no surprise why. When two vehicles are moving straight, it’s generally easy for drivers to predict each other’s movements. However, introducing a turn into the equation complicates things significantly, often leading to misunderstandings, misjudgments, and, unfortunately, collisions.

Turning accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

• The car making the turn brakes unexpectedly, causing a rear-end collision.
• The turning driver fails to signal, leaving other drivers unaware of their intentions.
• A driver attempts a turn without waiting for a sufficient gap in traffic.
• Another driver is speeding or runs a red light/stop sign, colliding with the turning vehicle.

Determining Fault in Connecticut Turning Accidents

In Connecticut, car accident liability follows a fault-based system. This means the driver who caused the accident is considered “at fault” and is responsible for covering damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and more. However, determining fault in turning accidents can be tricky since multiple factors often come into play.

The driver making the turn is generally considered at fault if:

• The turn was illegal (e.g., turning where prohibited).
• They failed to signal their turn, contributing to the collision.
• They attempted the turn when it was unsafe to do so, even if the turn itself was legal.

However, in some cases, the other driver may share or bear full responsibility for the accident, particularly if their actions contributed directly to the collision. For example, if the other driver was speeding, driving recklessly, or ignoring traffic signals, they may be found at fault.

Are Left Turn Accidents Always the Turning Driver’s Fault?

Left turn accidents are among the most frequent types of car accident claims. This is because left turns require the turning driver to judge the speed and distance of oncoming traffic, often across multiple lanes. A minor error in judgment can lead to devastating accidents.

Generally, the law places the burden of ensuring a safe turn squarely on the driver making the left turn. Oncoming traffic has the right of way and cannot reasonably adjust their speed or position to accommodate an unsafe or poorly timed turn. As such, the turning driver is typically held responsible for left turn accidents.

That said, there are exceptions when the oncoming driver may be at least partially at fault. These situations include:

• The oncoming driver was excessively speeding, far beyond the posted speed limit.
• The oncoming driver ran a red light, stop sign, or other traffic control device.
• The turning driver began their turn when it was safe but was forced to stop mid-turn due to a sudden obstruction or unforeseen event.

In such cases, fault may be divided between the parties involved. However, even if the oncoming driver shares some responsibility, the turning driver may still bear a portion of the blame.

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Turning Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident involving a turn, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands Connecticut law. Fault can be highly contested in these cases, and you need an advocate who will fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 475-231-3274 to schedule your free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form to get started.

We take pride in serving clients across Connecticut and ensuring that their voices are heard in both settlement negotiations and in the courtroom. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.