Turning left at an intersection is one of the riskiest maneuvers motorists face daily. If a driver turning left makes a mistake, the results can be catastrophic. Left-turn accidents can cause life-altering injuries, leaving victims in excruciating pain and facing a mountain of medical debt.
If you have been harmed in a left-turn car accident in Denver, you may be eligible to request compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and more. The dedicated auto accident attorneys at The Wilhite Law Firm have recovered millions in compensation for injured clients. Let us put our experience and skills to work for you. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation with a left-turn accident lawyer in Denver.
What Is the Left-Turn Law in Denver?
According to Colorado law, a driver turning left at an intersection or into another roadway or driveway must yield the right of way to a vehicle in or approaching the intersection from the opposite direction. If drivers violate this law, they commit a Class A traffic offense. In addition to fines, the driver may also be legally liable for losses resulting from a collision.
Who Is Usually Considered At Fault in a Left-Turn Accident?
Most left-turn accidents occur because the turning driver fails to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. That means the motorist executing the left-hand turn is usually considered at fault for injuries suffered in the car crash.
However, in some cases, the driver of the oncoming vehicle may be at least partially at fault. These include situations where:
- The driver runs a red light into the intersection while the left-turning driver has a green left-turn arrow.
- The driver was speeding, leaving insufficient time for the left-turning motorist to perform what would otherwise have been a safe turn.
- The driver was distracted and drifted into the wrong area of the intersection.
- The driver was not fully in control of their vehicle due to driving under the influence.
If you are unsure who should bear fault for the accident that caused your injuries, consult an experienced Denver left-turn accident attorney at The Wilhite Law Firm. We will thoroughly investigate the crash to determine what occurred and who should be held liable.
What Are Common Causes of Left-Turn Accidents?
Some of the most common causes of left-turn accidents include:
- Driver inattention – The left-turning driver may be distracted, drowsy, or not paying close enough attention to oncoming traffic. This can lead to misjudging the speed and distance of oncoming cars
- Failure to yield – The left-turning driver may fail to properly yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, turning directly into the path of a vehicle
- Speeding – If the oncoming vehicle is speeding, the left-turning driver may misjudge how quickly it’s approaching. They could end up making a turn when there is not enough time to safely complete it
- Traffic light confusion – A left-turning driver may turn on a solid red or yellow light if they are confused about the traffic signals. This may put them into oncoming traffic that is still legally moving through the intersection
What Injuries Can Result from a Left-Turn Crash?
Left-turn collisions in Denver often occur at high speeds, resulting in significant force of impact. Common sustained injuries can include:
How Do I Prove Who Is Responsible for a Left-Turn Collision?
To prove fault for a Denver left-turn accident, an attorney will gather evidence, including:
- Police reports documenting statements, findings, and any citations issued
- Accident reconstructions analyzing evidence like skid marks at the accident scene and vehicle damage to determine speeds and impact angles
- Medical records showing injuries consistent with one party’s account of events
- Eyewitness statements about what parties were doing before the impact
- Video footage from intersection cameras, dash cams, or nearby security systems
- Data from the vehicles’ computers analyzing speeds, braking, and other parameters
- Phone records indicating distracted driving if cell phone use is suspected
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction or medical experts
What Damages Can I Receive in a Successful Car Accident Claim?
A skilled Denver left-turn accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for losses such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income due to missed time at work
- Reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The amount of compensation you are eligible to receive will depend on the nature of your injuries and your attorney’s legal skills. Consulting with a local left turn accident lawyer at The Wilhite Law Firm can help you understand how much you may be able to recover in your case.
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Left-Turn Accident Claim?
Colorado’s statute of limitations for car accidents requires injured individuals to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party within three years of the crash. Failure to meet this deadline will likely result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Working with a knowledgeable Denver left-turn car crash lawyer can help ensure that you complete all filings promptly and effectively.
Contact a Denver Left-Turn Accident Lawyer
Suffering injuries in a left-turn car accident in Denver can change your life in an instant. The compassionate car accident attorneys at The Wilhite Law Firm understand how painful and heartbreaking the aftermath of a crash can feel. However, we also know how vital it is to take action to protect your rights, demand the compensation you deserve, and hold the at-fault driver accountable for your injuries.
When you work with us, you will have a legal professional on your side who can provide the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time. We have been successfully fighting for injured Coloradans since 1977 and are ready to continue our excellent track record with you. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
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