While the risk of collisions involving motor vehicles is always present when vehicles cross paths at intersections, left turns present a special risk for pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and vehicle occupants. Based on data from the federal government, approximately 53 percent of all crashes involving vehicles crossing paths involve a left turn while less than six percent involve right turns. This increased risk of an accident applies to all types of vehicles and even pedestrians. Left-hand turns were determined to present triple the risk of a fatal pedestrian accident compared to a right turn according to a study conducted by New York City transportation researchers. Further, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than one in three fatal motorcycle crashes involve a motorist turning left in front of the rider. Some traffic safety experts have even advocated that government traffic authorities prioritize safety over convenience by restricting or limiting the use of left turns.
Left hand turns contribute to accidents both by increasing traffic congestion and promoting prolonged stops in front of approaching traffic. The obvious danger of having a vehicle waiting for cross-traffic to allow a left turn can be completed obviously creates an extended period of exposure for intersecting vehicles. Since left turns often require delays while waiting for a special green arrow or cross-traffic to clear, congestion created by these delays also tends to promote accidents.
While it might be unrealistic to believe that left turns will be banned or severely restricted, the benefits of such a strategy have led at least one major shipper to adopt such a practice. UPS has adopted driving practices that entail drivers turn right 90 percent of the time. Given that UPS is one of the largest shipping and logistics companies in the U.S., it is particularly interesting that the practice has not only proven to make the roads safer but also resulted in improved fuel efficiency. According to the company, their policy of minimizing left turns has saved millions of gallons in fuel based on a report published in The Washington Post.
Although the issue of liability must be evaluated based on the unique facts and circumstances of each accident, drivers involved in crashes while executing a left turn frequently will be considered at-fault for collisions. Traffic laws in Mississippi and most states require that a motorist wait until a left turn can be completed safely before entering into an area where there is oncoming traffic. Since traffic safety laws typically require that a motorist making a left turn yield to vehicles that are oncoming or approaching, the fault of the driver turning left will be almost automatic in most cases. However, there are exceptions to this general principle, such as a driver that runs a red light or a motorist that exceeds the speed limit when entering an intersection. Proof of fault also might be more complicated if it was safe to complete the left turn when the maneuver was initiated, but an unanticipated event caused the turning vehicle to stop or slow after commencing the turn.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by a driver executing an unsafe left turn, our law firm can evaluate your situation and determine your right to financial compensation. At Barrett Law, our seasoned Mississippi Car Accident Lawyers understand car accident victims often feel overwhelmed, and we are here to help. Contact our firm today at 800.707.9577 to schedule your free consultation, so we can answer any questions you may have regarding filing car accident case.
