How to Win a Left-Turn Accident
You've been in a left-turn accident. It's a pretty common scenario, especially in a busy state like California. Left turns can be tricky; unfortunately, they're often the scene of serious crashes. If you find yourself in this situation, you might be wondering what your options are and how to win a left-turn accident case. Well, we’re here to walk you through it in an accessible way.
Understanding Fault in a Left-Turn Accident
First things first, let's talk about fault. In California, the law generally places the burden of proof on the person making the left turn. This is because left turns require crossing oncoming traffic, which is usually moving straight ahead. The rule of thumb is that the driver turning left must yield to any vehicle coming straight through the intersection from the opposite direction.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically at fault if you were making the left turn when the accident happened. There are plenty of scenarios where the other driver might be at fault, or at least share some of the blame. For instance, if the other driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was distracted (texting and driving, for instance), you might have a case. The key here is gathering evidence—pictures, witness statements, and any other documentation that shows what happened.
The Importance of Gathering Evidence
Evidence is your best friend when it comes to winning a left-turn accident case. You’ve probably heard something like this before, but let’s break it down into something more tangible. Right after the accident, if you're able to, take pictures of everything: your car, the other car, the intersection, skid marks, traffic lights, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident go down. Witnesses can offer a third-party perspective that can be invaluable, especially if the other driver tries to paint a different picture of what happened.
California is a comparative negligence state, which means that even if you're partly at fault, you can still recover damages. However, the amount you can recover will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. So, if you’re 20% at fault, you’ll only get 80% of the total damages. This is why solid evidence is crucial—it can help reduce your percentage of fault and maximize your compensation.
Working With Personal Injury Attorneys
Dealing with the aftermath of a left-turn accident can be overwhelming, especially when insurance companies start playing hardball. This is where personal injury attorneys step in to make life easier for you. They’re well-versed in California law and have a deep understanding of how to get through the often tricky process of working with accident claims. With their experience, they can help you gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve. What’s more, having an attorney who’s got your back means you don’t have to deal with the stress of endless paperwork and frustrating phone calls.
Our lead attorney brings a unique set of skills to the table. Growing up in a trailer park and serving as a veteran, he knows what it means to fight for what’s right. He’s not just a lawyer—he’s someone who understands your situation on a personal level. His background in sales also plays a crucial role when it comes to litigation. Selling the courtroom on the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life is key to winning your case, and his ability to connect with people can make all the difference. This blend of down-to-earth empathy and sharp litigation skills is what sets him apart.
The Process of Filing a Claim
Filing a claim after a left-turn accident isn’t something you want to do on your own, especially if you’re dealing with injuries and car repairs at the same time. Personal injury attorneys will walk you through the process, step by step. First, they’ll file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Then, they’ll help you gather all the necessary documentation—medical bills, repair estimates, and any other expenses you’ve incurred because of the accident.
If the insurance company offers a fair settlement, that’s all well and good. If they lowball you (and they often will), personal injury attorneys will take the fight to the next level. This might mean filing a lawsuit and going to court. It sounds intimidating, but remember, you don’t have to do this alone. With the right legal team, you’ll have a solid strategy and a plan for success.
Knowing What to Expect in Court
If your case goes to court, it’s normal to feel a bit intimidated, but with the right preparation, you’ll be ready for anything. Personal injury attorneys will walk you through every step of the process, from understanding how the trial will proceed to what to expect during cross-examination. They’ll make sure that all the evidence is presented clearly and convincingly, making your case as strong as possible. Courtroom proceedings are all about telling your story, and your attorney will help develop strategies to highlight the other driver’s negligence and the impact of the accident on your life.
Having an attorney with a sales background is a huge asset in court. They know how to present your story in a way that resonates with the jury, making the emotional and financial toll of the accident clear. The courtroom isn’t just about facts—it’s about how those facts are presented. Your attorney’s ability to connect with the jury and convey the full extent of your injuries can make all the difference in securing a favorable outcome. If the other side is trying to downplay your suffering, your attorney will push back, making sure that your voice is heard and your case is taken seriously.
Settling vs. Going to Trial
Not all cases go to trial, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Many left-turn accident cases are settled out of court. Settling can be a good option if you’re looking to avoid the time, stress, and uncertainty of a trial. Personal injury attorneys will help you weigh the pros and cons of settling versus going to trial.
If the settlement offer is fair and covers your expenses and damages, it might make sense to accept it and move on. However, if the offer is too low, your attorneys won’t hesitate to take the case to court. They’ll give you their honest opinion on what your case is worth and whether it’s worth fighting for more.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
Dealing with a left-turn accident is stressful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Personal injury attorneys are here to help you every step of the way. Whether it’s gathering evidence, filing a claim, or taking your case to court, they’ve got your back. The lead attorney at our firm knows how to fight for what you deserve, and he’s ready to put his experience and skills to work for you.
If you’ve been in a left-turn accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at G. Aldrich Law. We’re here to help you win your case and get the compensation you deserve. Our office has locations in Lakeport and Woodland Hills, California. Additionally, we serve clients throughout Lake County, Los Angeles County, Colusa County, Riverside County, and surrounding Northern and Southern California counties.