The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 40% of car accidents occur at intersections. Many of these accidents transpired when a motorist was attempting to make a left-hand turn. Florida accidents, such as ones that occur when a person is making a left-hand turn at an intersection, can result in serious injuries to drivers, passengers, and bystanders.
Most Florida roadways have two lanes of travel; as such, most intersections have four lanes meeting in the middle. These intersections can be perilous because drivers need to be aware of traffic coming from several different directions. The NHTSA findings revealed that the majority of intersection accidents occur because of driver error. The top forms of driver error were failure to observe the intersection, incorrect assumptions about other motorists, continuing through an intersection with an obstructed view, illegal traffic maneuvers, distraction, and improper judgment. Many of these accidents occurred when a motorist was making a left turn.
There are many reasons why a left-hand turn is hazardous. The main reason is that drivers turning left often have to cross a complete lane of traffic after waiting for traffic from both directions. This driving maneuver requires quick thinking and swift movement. However, quick judgment is not always the safest, and those making a left-hand turn may not notice all of the vehicles and pedestrians approaching. Further, many people making left-hand turns mistakenly assume that an approaching motorist will yield to them. This mistake often results when an approaching car inadvertently leaves its blinker on or when the driver seems to be slowing down.
Additionally, accidents occur because motorists fail to appropriately judge how long the turn will take. Finally, these turns frequently turn deadly because oncoming traffic is typically traveling faster than the vehicle making the left turn. The force between the oncoming car can cause serious damages and injuries to all of the parties involved.
For example, a recent Florida news report described a tragic left-hand turn accident. The accident occurred when a sedan driver attempted to make a left turn into a westbound lane. The 17-year-old motorcyclist was traveling east, and although he tried to slow down, he collided with the turning sedan. The sedan driver did not suffer any injuries, but the motorcyclist died at the accident scene.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Florida Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a Florida motorcycle accident, you should contact the attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon. The compassionate attorneys at our office have extensive experience handling a variety of complex personal injury claims. We handle motor vehicle accidents, product liability claims, premises liability cases, and medical malpractice lawsuits. Our attorneys provide clients with individualized strategic representation to ensure that they effectively pursue the compensation they deserve. Compensation in these cases typically includes payments for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages and benefits, and pain and suffering. Contact our office at 877-499-4878, to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney at our firm. You can also reach us through our online form.