Auto Accident Attorney Los Angeles: Securing Compensation for Negligent Left Turn
November 2023
At Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C., a Los Angeles auto accident law firm, we recently represented a client who was driving in his lane on the road when another car collided with the front-left side of his vehicle while attempting to make a left turn. Our client suffered personal injuries and his vehicle was severely damaged.
Our legal team at Fassonaki Law Firm P.C. investigated the details of the accident and collected all the relevant evidence. In this case, the adverse driver engaged in dangerous and reckless behavior that put others at risk under California law and violated California Vehicle Code § 21801(a).
According to California Vehicle Code § 21801(a) a driver who intends to either turn left or make a legal U-turn must yield to all traffic traveling in the opposite direction and not initiate or continue the turn until such traffic is a safe enough distance away to negotiate the turn.
It was our team's effort and commitment that led us to a great victory, the adverse driver was at fault for the accident under California law and accepted the liability for the loss. Our client was entitled to compensation for his bodily injuries, including economic and non-economic damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Left-Turn Accidents in California
Who Is Usually at Fault in a Left-Turn Accident in California?
Under California Vehicle Code § 21801(a), a driver intending to turn left or make a U-turn must yield the right-of-way to approaching vehicles that are close enough to present a hazard. However, fault depends on the specific circumstances and evidence surrounding each collision.
What Does California Vehicle Code § 21801(a) Require?
California Vehicle Code § 21801(a) generally requires a driver making a left turn or U-turn to yield to approaching traffic until the turn can be made with reasonable safety. A violation of this rule may be important evidence when determining liability after an accident.
Can I Pursue Compensation If a Driver Turned Left in Front of Me?
If another driver's unsafe left turn caused your accident and injuries, you may be able to pursue a California personal injury claim. Depending on the circumstances, recoverable damages may include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses.
What Evidence Can Help Prove Fault in a Left-Turn Accident?
Evidence may include police reports, photographs, surveillance or dashcam footage, vehicle damage, witness statements, medical records, and other information concerning how the collision occurred. Preserving evidence as soon as possible after an accident can be important when establishing liability.
Is the Left-Turning Driver Always Responsible for an Accident?
Not necessarily. Although California law imposes specific duties on drivers making left turns, liability must be determined from the circumstances of each accident. Factors such as the speed and actions of both drivers, traffic signals, visibility, and available evidence may affect the determination of fault.
What Damages Can Be Recovered After a California Auto Accident?
Depending on the facts of the case, an injured person may seek economic and non-economic damages. These can include medical expenses, lost earnings, property damage, future losses, and compensation for pain and suffering.
Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Left-Turn Collision?
If you suffered injuries because another driver allegedly failed to yield while making a left turn, a Los Angeles auto accident lawyer can investigate the collision, preserve relevant evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and evaluate the compensation you may be entitled to pursue under California law.
Schedule a consultation with Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C., a Los Angeles auto accident law firm, by calling 323-524-8994.
Disclaimer: Testimonials, past experience, and success stories are not a guarantee, warranty or prediction of future outcomes.
Practice area(s): Car / Auto Accident
