Left-turn accidents generally occur due to the negligence of a driver who makes a turn ahead of an oncoming vehicle. Cars, trucks, and motorcycles have been known to make these mistakes due to drivers ignoring rules and unlawfully turning into intersections in an attempt to beat traffic lights. In Bradenton, this type of motor vehicle accident often happens at intersections. Generally, one driver attempts to pass another whilst they are waiting for the road to be free of oncoming vehicles.
Florida traffic laws require drivers to follow a duty of care. This means that it is compulsory to drive with caution in order to keep other drivers safe on the roads of Bradenton. Therefore, when a driver has failed to follow this duty of care by acting recklessly and endangering others, they should be held accountable.
If you or a loved one have sustained an auto accident involving a left turn in Bradenton, then you may be eligible for compensation. If you have suffered damages like lost wages, medical bills, and physical or emotional injuries, then such compensation can be claimed.
Here at The Law Place, we offer representation from highly knowledgeable accident attorneys who boast a combined experience of over 75 years. Our dedicated team will undertake a case review, while a skilled Bradenton personal injury lawyer will support you through the process.
Phone us now to schedule a free consultation at (941) 444-4444. Our phone lines are open 24/7.
Left Turn Accidents and Collisions in Bradenton, Florida
The Florida road rules state that a driver who needs to make a right-hand turn at an intersection should be positioned as close to the curb or side of the road as is possible.
However, in the case of a left turn, the vehicle making the turn must be near the intersection in the furthest left-hand lane. After entering the intersection, the maneuver must be promptly performed in order to leave the intersection clear for approaching traffic.
A person who is riding a bicycle and needs to make a left-hand turn has the right to use the lane fully if they are making the turn from the correct side. Although, the left turn must be performed in the center or left of the intersection, where possible.
If a Florida governing authority introduces a traffic control device in Bradenton, then its signals must be followed by all drivers as well as the necessary traffic laws. This applies even if the device redirects vehicles on an unexpected course, as stated in Florida Statute 316.151.
The laws made to protect drivers on the roads of Florida are often complex and can be confusing when trying to determine who was at fault in a left-turn accident. If you find yourself a victim of a traffic accident, then do not hesitate to contact us. At The Law Place, our injury lawyers are always here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Negligence for Violating Florida’s Left Turn Law
Bradenton is partly controlled by statutory traffic laws established by officials in the State of Florida to instruct drivers on how to approach a left turn on a public road. If a driver ignores these rules, then this driver will be subjected to a fine or a ticket. Driving laws in Bradenton are also controlled by Florida’s common law. Formed by the judicial system and based on past court rulings, any driver who incites a car accident due to negligence when making a left turn will be liable under common or statutory law.
Common law and Florida Statute Chapter 316 together clearly state traffic laws in Bradenton and across the State of Florida. These laws are defined so that a victim of an auto accident can claim compensation after an accident. Therefore, when proving negligent driving, and the fault of a driver, it is important to show the failure to follow the duty of care when the left turn was made. Most often, the failure comes from a driver ignoring the rules of the road and allowing a car accident to ensue.
If you have been a victim of a car accident in the Bradenton area, call The Law Place for a free consultation. You may be unsure as to whether you are entitled to compensation but worry not. Our expert accident attorneys come highly recommended and will efficiently determine if your case is valid. From there, they will advise you on the next steps to take to ensure that you don’t feel any unnecessary stress.
We’re here to serve you. Our phones are open 24 hours a day.
Grounds for Filing a Personal Injury Claim
In the event that you become the victim of a left turn accident in Bradenton and it isn’t any fault of your own, then you will be eligible to claim back losses on income, medical bills, and emotional stress. A Bradenton accident lawyer will be able to determine if your claim is valid and, if so, what damages you are entitled to. Contacting a lawyer is extremely important when fighting to recover maximum compensation.
There are three categories that damages usually fall into punitive damages, economic damages, and non-economic damages.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to penalize a driver for committing a crime when breaking laws on the road.
Economic Damages
Economic damages can be defined as expenses that are covered by a victim’s own money. These can be recorded and calculated through keeping records, such as receipts, bank statements, and invoices. Furthermore, damages can include future expenses when reasonably anticipated. Expenses such as future medical bills, transport to and from appointments, lost income, potential losses in future income, and vehicle repairs can all be considered economic damages.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-Economic damages are in place so that a victim can be compensated for both physical and emotional hardship. Generally included in this are physical pain, mental suffering, and a reduction to the victim’s quality of life. In addition, compensation should be awarded when a victim suffers any permanent harm like disfigurement or scarring, as well as a loss of bodily functions.
Due to difficulty in evaluating the monetary value of these damages, it is vitally important to employ a law firm that will strive to recover exactly what you deserve. Without the representation of a lawyer, it is likely that you will be offered a lower figure than you are entitled to. Make sure that you get yourself the help needed to relieve the suffering endured so that you can move into the future and never look back.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Bradenton
As stated in Florida Statute 627.7407, Florida is a no-fault state. Therefore, the law dictates that compensation should be sought from your insurance provider, no matter if the accident was caused by you or another driver.
In addition, the minimum requirements for a driver in Florida regarding insurance are set out in Florida Statute 627.736. Protecting both drivers and passengers, this statute states that personal injury protection (PIP) must be carried. A minimum amount of $10,000 is required, with an additional $10,000 to cover property damage. Your insurance provider is obliged to cover 80% of any medical costs and property damage, up to your policy limit.
However, in a car accident caused by an unlawful left turn, the cost of damages will almost certainly exceed your policy limit. The reason for this is that in an accident of this nature, the impact is usually side-on, producing significant damage. In this case, compensation needs to be sought from the insurance company of the other driver.
It is important to remember that insurance companies often use what you say against your claim. Their sole aim is to make a profit, and therefore, we advise that you do not mention details of your injuries, even to your own insurance company. Always consult an attorney so that you have the best chance of recovering every penny of what you deserve.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers.
What to Do After an Accident in Florida
The most vital thing to remember following an accident is that it is important to remain calm. Here is a breakdown of the necessary steps to take if you have been involved in an accident:
- Remain at the scene – Always remain at the scene following an accident. Driving away will mean that the accident becomes a hit and run, despite the accident being the fault of another driver.
- Find a safe location – Make sure to move out of the path of oncoming traffic if your injuries allow you to do so.
- Call 911 – Florida Statute 316.062 states that the police must be called in the aftermath of an auto accident that has led to serious damage, either in terms of injuries or property damage. The resulting police report can then be used as evidence for your claim. Any physical injuries require you to call an ambulance immediately.
- Get the other driver’s information – Record their name, contact number, insurance, and the information of any other drivers involved.
- Collect evidence – Taking photographs is a good method for collecting evidence. Photograph everything from the road and the vehicles to skid marks or road signs you feel are relevant.
- Get the information of any witnesses – It is important to take the names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Contact a Bradenton auto accident lawyer – Contact an attorney at The Law Place for a free consultation and some expert advice.
- Contact your insurance provider – You must contact your insurance company following an accident so that you can make a claim. The time period is often within 24 hours, but it will be stated in your policy.
- Avoid posting any information on social media – This could later be used as evidence against your claim.
- Record a journal – Keeping a journal can later be used as a key piece of evidence. Record any pain and disruptions you have faced in your day-to-day life.
- Keep every record – It is important to keep any documents that could later prove useful. This includes medical bills, receipts, and invoices. These will be used as evidence of your economic damages.
What Can a Bradenton Accident Attorney Do?
Florida law is complex and often confusing. Hiring an accident attorney will help to navigate this difficult system if you have become a victim of someone else’s negligent driving.
Time is of the essence in this type of case. Evidence must be gathered so that memories are fresh and precise, CCTV footage is still available, and vehicular damage remains.
Personal injury protection (PIP) can lead to a situation where you still have many unpaid expenses. It is the role of an attorney to recover the maximum compensation so that you do not find yourself left at a disadvantage.
The Law Place
Here at The Law Place, our expert team will review your case and help you take the next step towards recovering compensation.
We understand that you may feel overwhelmed following an accident. We are open 24/7. You can contact us to arrange a free consultation with an experienced lawyer whenever you are ready. Do not hesitate to contact us today. We will fight for your right to justice.
Don’t let another person’s mistake affect your life. Phone us today at (941) 444-4444.
