Right turns are one of those driving maneuvers that many people take for granted. We do them all of the time. However, right turns can be dangerous in the wrong conditions and they can lead to collisions.
Any time a right turn car accident takes place, the insurance companies representing both drivers must decide who is at fault. This process can be complicated, and the determination of who was at fault will depend on many factors such as who had the right of way, who was traveling faster, who may have been distracted or made an unsafe move.
In this post, we’ll discuss the specifics of right turn accidents, how Missouri assigns fault in car accidents and who is usually at fault in right-turn crashes.
What is a right-turn car accident?
A right turn accident is a collision that occurs when a driver makes a right turn and collides with an oncoming vehicle.
These crashes usually occur at intersections, junctions or in parking lots, where cars traveling different directions come in contact with each other.
Figuring out who is at fault in a right turn accident can be complicated, as multiple factors must be taken into consideration.
How does Missouri assign fault in car accidents?
Missouri is an at-fault state, which means that the driver who is found to be responsible for the accident is responsible for paying for the damages that result.
Missouri uses the legal doctrine of negligence to determine the at-fault driver in a car crash. Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care. For example, if a driver who has the right of way is hit by another who failed to yield, the latter driver may be deemed negligent and therefore responsible for any damages.
Who is at fault in a right turn accident?
In a right turn accident, the driver who makes the right turn is usually found to be at fault.
This is because the driver making the right turn has a duty to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and collisions that result are usually caused by the driver failing to yield.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the oncoming driver was intoxicated, driving at an excessive speed or ran a red light, they may be found to be partially or wholly at fault for the accident.
Responsibilities of drivers in oncoming traffic
Same as drivers making right turns, the drivers in oncoming traffic have a responsibility to exercise reasonable care and avoid collisions with other vehicles.
This includes driving at a safe speed, paying attention to traffic signals and signs, and being aware of other vehicles and pedestrians.
When approaching an intersection or a right-turn-only lane, drivers should be aware that vehicles in the right-turn lane have the right of way, and they should yield to those vehicles.
How to file a claim in a right turn crash
If you have been involved in a right turn accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
A personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will help you negotiate with the insurance company, file a lawsuit if necessary and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
At Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse, our team of experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers has helped countless clients obtain compensation for their injuries and damages resulting from car accidents, including right turn accidents. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of legal representation and will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call today for your free consultation – (314) 350-1900.