Most non-highway traffic accidents occur at or near intersections, and the most common of these are left-turn collisions. They typically happen when a vehicle making a left turn collides with an oncoming vehicle traveling straight from the opposite direction. Both drivers can suffer serious injuries and may sue for damages. The assignment of fault in such cases largely depends on the actions or negligence of each driver prior to the crash and whether traffic laws were broken.

The driver making the left turn may seem to be primarily to blame, because they are expected to yield to oncoming traffic. A Connecticut statute provides that at intersections, whether there are signals or stop signs, drivers making a left turn must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction. Violation of this statute, or any other traffic law, can serve as evidence of negligence in a civil lawsuit. For instance, if a driver making a left turn ignores a stop sign or traffic signal, this act of negligence can be directly linked to the cause of the accident.

However, there are situations where the oncoming driver may be found at fault. For example, if the oncoming driver was significantly exceeding the speed limit or ran a red light, they might be deemed responsible for the collision. Similarly, if the left-turning driver had a green arrow indicating a protected turn, then the responsibility may shift to the oncoming driver who failed to stop at a red light.

Connecticut's comparative negligence law also plays a role in determining fault. Under this law, the degree of fault for each driver is considered, and the compensation for damages may be reduced by the percentage of their fault. For example, if a driver making a left turn is found to be 70 percent at fault for failing to yield, but the oncoming driver is 30 percent at fault for speeding, the compensation awarded to the injured party will be adjusted accordingly. 

The assistance of a knowledgeable auto accident attorney can be invaluable in dealing with the legal aftermath of serious left-turn collisions. An attorney can assemble the evidence necessary to demonstrate the negligence of the other driver and to defend against allegations of your own fault. An attorney can also gather medical documents and testimony to prove the extent of your injuries. 

The law firm of Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. in Hamden and East Haven represents injured auto accident victims throughout Connecticut, helping them recover the compensation they need. Call us at 203-745-0942 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.