Most of the time, it’s assumed that the driver turning left is at fault in a left-hand turn accident in Georgia. This is because a driver turning left must yield the right of way to traffic that is going straight, unless the driver is turning on a green left-turn arrow. Drivers turning left must also yield to pedestrians crossing the intersection.
There are some cases, however, where the driver turning left is not the one at fault. Typically, these come into play when the driver who is going straight is violating traffic laws or driving in an unsafe manner. If you have been in a left-hand turn accident that you believe is not your fault, you need to get help from an experienced car accident lawyer.
What are the rules about left hand turns?
Georgia’s right of way laws apply to left hand turns. In most cases, a driver who is going straight has the right of way. At an unmarked intersection or a green light without an arrow, you must yield to cars traveling in the opposite direction, and only make a left turn when you can get across the intersection safely. The same is true if you are turning on a flashing yellow arrow. And if you’re turning on a green arrow, you have the right of way as to other cars, but you still must be on the lookout for pedestrians in the crosswalk.
What if I was turning but I’m sure the accident was not my fault?
Police officers and insurance companies may assume that you were at fault if you were turning left. But being labeled as “at fault” has consequences: you will not be able to get the other driver’s insurance company to pay for your injuries. Your insurance will be held responsible, your premiums may go up, and you may face a traffic citation.
It can be hard to prove the accident wasn’t your fault, but a car accident lawyer can help. At our law firm, we launch an investigation at the beginning of every case, finding evidence that shows what really happened. For example, we may be able to show you were not at fault because the other driver ran a red light or was flying through the intersection at a high rate of speed. If you are not 100% sure you were at fault, the best thing you can do is to talk to a car accident lawyer and find out if you might have a claim.
How much will the insurance company pay me for my injuries?
It depends on how badly you were hurt, but the general rule is that you can get payment for all of the consequences of an accident that wasn’t your fault. This includes the cost of your medical treatment, medications and physical therapy, but it can also include these types of losses:
- Lost wages. This is a payment to make up for money you lost if you couldn’t work because of the accident
- Pain and suffering. “Pain and suffering” damages pay for the way the accident has changed or harmed your life—including your pain and inability to do things you used to do.
- Punitive damages. If the driver at fault was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may be eligible for additional money to punish the driver for bad behavior.
If your injuries are serious, you may feel like money is a poor substitute for the things you’ve lost. We know this, but we also know that financial stress can make it harder to recover. The money you receive in a car accident claim can ease your mind and give you the resources to get good treatment and continue to heal.
Most of the time, accident victims get their claims paid without having to file car accident lawsuits around Atlanta. However, you should understand that insurance companies like to find ways to deny claims or reduce the amount they have to pay. Never take insurance money or sign anything until you have talked to a car accident lawyer.
Talk to an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer for Free
Our lawyers know how to get accident victims the money they need to continue the healing process. We keep our rates affordable—we don’t charge you unless we win you money. Let us give you a FREE, no obligation consultation to explain how we can help. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.