Completing a left turn at an intersection is a common harm-reduction choice. Many people specifically choose to turn at an intersection instead of in the middle of the road. They may plan their route to make use of traffic lights and left-turn lanes for their safety.
Unfortunately, every left turn is a somewhat dangerous decision. Many collisions at intersections begin with a vehicle turning left. A driver turning is not necessarily at fault, but they are at elevated risk if a collision occurs.
Side-impact crashes are the worst type of wreck
Left-turn collisions are often side-impact crashes. Also known as T-bone collisions, these crashes involve the front end of one vehicle striking the side of another vehicle. Side-impact collisions can have devastating consequences for vehicle occupants.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), they are more likely than any other type of collision to prove fatal. Additionally, the lack of standard safety systems for side impact wrecks increases the risk of severe injuries and a totaled vehicle.
People affected by a left-turn collision may have losses that exceed the available insurance coverage provided by the driver at fault for the wreck. They may need help either negotiating a fair settlement or preparing to take the at-fault driver to court in pursuit of fair compensation.
Drivers who turn without yielding the right of way or who proceed through intersections without checking their surroundings may be responsible for any major wrecks they cause. Understanding how benign and legal traffic choices can lead to increased motor vehicle collision risk and be beneficial for those worried about their safety on the road.