Left-turn car crashes are common in Chattanooga, often leading to severe injuries and significant property damage. Various complex aspects of these accidents can make it tricky to determine who is at fault.
Were you injured in a left-turn car crash due to another driver’s negligence? Call Massey & Associates to learn how we may be able to help you seek compensation. Our Chattanooga car accident lawyers have years of experience helping car crash victims. If we determine that you have a case, our firm can guide you through the challenging legal process without any upfront fees.
Understanding Liability in Left-Turn Accidents
Liability in left-turn accidents is typically assigned to the driver making the left turn. This is because left turns require crossing oncoming traffic, which makes the turning driver responsible for checking when it is safe to proceed.
Left-turn collisions occur in many different locations. Common places for left-turn crashes include turning at intersections, side streets or into parking lots. In many of these situations, the turning driver must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Failure to do so could lead to a car crash that leaves the left turning driver liable.
Although a left-turn driver is usually at-fault for a crash, there are incidents when this driver may not be liable. Some examples are:
- If the left turning driver was at traffic light with a green arrow, they had the right-of-way, and the oncoming drivers should yield.
- If an oncoming vehicle ran a red light or stop sign, the left turning driver would not be at fault.
- If oncoming driver was speeding and the left-turning driver could not reasonably anticipate their approach, the left-turning driver may not be liable.
Factors Influencing Fault in Chattanooga Left-Turn Collisions
These factors can influence fault in left-turn collisions in Chattanooga, including:
Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads or obstructed views can contribute to accidents. For examples, uneven or worn-out roads could cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle as they turn. In some instances, these cases may be rare, but liability could fall on government entities who may be responsible for maintaining safe road conditions.
Driver Behavior
Distracted driving, speeding or failing to use turn signals can also influence fault. If you get into an accident with a driver who was distracted by texting, he or she may be held liable if it is determined that the accident would not have occurred had the driver been paying attention to the road.
How Can I Prove the Other Driver Was At-Fault?
After a car crash, you will have to prove that the other driver is responsible for the damages and injuries. Evidence that you could use to strengthen your case include:
- Police reports
- Eyewitness testimony
- Accident scene photos and videos
- Dashcam footage or surveillance camera
- Driver cell phone records
- Accident reconstruction testimony
- And more
What if I Am Partly At-Fault for a Left-Turn Accident?
Tennessee has a modified comparative fault law. This means you can still seek compensation for your damages if you are no more than 49 percent at fault. If you are assessed with any fault for the crash, any compensation awarded to you will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, say you are 20 percent liable for the crash. If you are awarded $100,000 for your damages, 20 percent, or $20,000, will be deducted from that amount, leaving you with $80,000.
If you are 50 percent or more liable for the crash, however, it is important to note that you are barred from recovering any compensation for your damages.
Tips for What to Do Right After a Left-Turn Crash
After a left-turn crash in Tennessee, it is important to take steps that could help to strengthen your case, especially since determining fault for these collisions can be complex. Beyond the standard post-car accident steps, here are key actions you can take specific to left-turn collisions:
- Note whether the traffic signal had a dedicated left-turn arrow indicating you had the right of way
- Write down whether any vehicles were blocking your view of oncoming traffic (like a large truck or SUV)
- Take photos of all lane markings, especially designated turn lanes and any “Left Turn Yield on Green” signs
- Look for traffic cameras or nearby security cameras from businesses that might have recorded the crash
- Document whether sun glare, low light or other visibility issues may have contributed to the crash
- Check if the other driver was in the proper lane when approaching the intersection
- Get contact details of any witnesses who saw the other driver speeding or running a red light while you were mid-turn
Most importantly, be sure to seek legal help to discuss your situation. Having someone on your side who understands the law and how to protect your legal rights can make a significant difference to the outcome of your claim.
Injured During a Left-Turn Crash? Call Massey & Associates
If you have been injured in a left-turn car crash in Chattanooga, you may be eligible to recover significant compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, property damage and other losses.
The Chattanooga attorneys at Massey & Associates have decades of experience and a proven track record of helping clients recover millions in compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal process.
Gary Massey, Jr., is a well-known courtroom advocate practicing law in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Gary is a native of Tennessee who began practicing law in 1998. He graduated from Cumberland School of Law where he was ranked in the top 3% of his class and was an editor of the Cumberland Law Review.
