Were you hit by a driver making an unsafe left turn in Columbia, MO? Left-turn accidents are common—and often serious—because they usually happen at intersections and involve high speeds. If you were injured in one of these crashes, you may be entitled to compensation. At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we’re here to help. You can reach us at (314) 444-4444.
Let a Columbia left-turn accident lawyer from our team review your case today. Contact now to schedule a free consultation.
How Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After an Accident in Columbia
At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight hard for accident victims. If you were hurt because another driver made an unsafe left turn, we’ll build a strong case and demand full compensation.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Years of experience handling left-turn and intersection accident cases
- Millions recovered for injury victims across Missouri
- Local attorneys who understand Columbia’s roads and court systems
- Strong relationships with medical and accident experts
When you hire our Columbia left-turn accident attorneys, we will:
- Investigate the crash and gather key evidence
- Speak with witnesses and obtain crash reports
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Handle all insurance communications and negotiations
- Fight for your rights in court, if needed
Let us handle your legal battle while you focus on healing. Call today to speak with a car accident attorney in Columbia, MO.
How Common Are Left-Turn Accidents?
Left-turn accidents happen more often than many people think. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Nearly 22% of all intersection crashes involve a left-turning vehicle
- Over 50% of cross-path crashes (where two vehicles travel in intersecting directions) are caused by improper left turns
- Drivers making left turns are almost 4 times more likely to cause an accident than drivers going straight
In Missouri, intersection-related accidents make up a large portion of car crash injuries. Busy intersections in Columbia—like those on Providence Road or Stadium Boulevard—can be especially dangerous.
What is a Left-Turn Accident?
A left-turn accident happens when a vehicle turning left collides with another car, pedestrian, or cyclist traveling straight or turning right. Most of these accidents occur at intersections, traffic lights, or when driveways meet the road. These crashes often happen in just a few seconds, leaving little time for drivers to react.
In many cases, left-turn accidents involve confusion over who has the right of way, especially when traffic lights or signals are unclear. Because the turning driver must cross one or more lanes of traffic, even small mistakes can lead to major collisions.
How Do Left Turn Accidents Happen?
Left-turn accidents can happen due to:
- Failing to yield to oncoming traffic
- Misjudging the speed of approaching vehicles
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Making a turn with limited visibility
- Speeding through yellow lights
These types of crashes often happen in just a few seconds and leave little time for anyone to react.
What Causes Left Turn Accidents?
Many left-turn accidents are caused by:
- Driver impatience or distraction
- Inexperienced or nervous drivers
- Low visibility due to weather, parked cars, or poor lighting
- Aggressive driving or road rage
Often, the driver making the left turn is found at fault, but there are exceptions. If the other driver was speeding, distracted, or ran a red light, they may share responsibility.
What Injuries Are Common in Left Turn Accidents?
Because left-turn accidents often involve head-on or side-impact collisions, injuries can be serious. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Whiplash
- Internal injuries or organ damage
- Cuts, bruises, and fractures
Many victims need emergency treatment, surgery, or physical therapy. Some are left with long-term pain or disabilities.
Who Is Liable for My Left Turn Accident?
Usually, the driver making the left turn is at fault. Missouri traffic law says drivers turning left must yield to oncoming vehicles. This is because oncoming drivers typically have the right of way. However, liability isn’t always one-sided. If the other driver was speeding, using a phone, or ran a red light, they might share some responsibility for the crash.
In some cases, poor road design or missing traffic signals can also contribute to the accident. Our attorneys will examine all evidence to determine who is legally responsible. We work with experts to build strong claims that stand up to insurance company challenges and maximize your chance of recovery.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Columbia Left-Turn Accident Lawyers
If you were hurt in a left-turn accident in Columbia, Missouri, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights and help you recover full compensation.
Let us handle your case while you focus on getting better. Call today to schedule your free consultation with a Columbia left-turn accident lawyer.
