
Toronto and Ontario auto accidents involving a left turning vehicle can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Often, automobiles will be traveling at a high rate of speed when they collide with another automobile that suddenly turns left across their path. If you or a loved one is involved in an accident involving a left turning vehicle, it is important to seek the advice of experienced Toronto and Ontario car accident lawyer to assess your claim and help you to make informed decisions.
Ontario automobile accidents involving left turns can be complex when it comes to advancing claims for insurance proceeds. Although you may be certain that the left turning vehicle caused the accident, these types of collisions are often vigorously defended on liability. Often, there will either be no witnesses or conflicting accounts as to how the collision occurred. The drivers of the respective automobiles involved may also have conflicting versions of the accident and sequence of events. In these circumstances, it may not be so easyto determine which party is at fault. Experienced Ontario car accident lawyers can assist with investigating the circumstances of the accident in order to prove fault and secure your ability to make a claim for your injuries.
The Ontario Highway Traffic Act states that "No driver or operator of a vehicle in an intersection shall turn left across the path of a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction unless he or she has afforded a reasonable opportunity to the driver or operator of the approaching vehicle to avoid a collision." R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, s. 141 (5).
In other words, a driver is not allowed to turn left at an intersection if the automobile approaching from the opposite could end up colliding with your automobile. Significantly, IT DOES NOT MATTER WHAT THE COLOR OF THE LIGHT IS AT THE TIME THE COLLSION OCCURS. It is not enough to simply wait for the light to turn red and then turn left. Even if an approaching vehicle runs a red light and collides with your car, you may still be liable. Before proceeding to make a left turn, take extra time to make sure that the approaching vehicles are completely stopping.
While a ticket or potential liability in a civil claim is one reason to wait before turning left, the more important reason by far is that left turn collisions can have catastrophic consequences. Take care of yourself and others on the roadway by exercising caution whenever making a left turn. Don't worry about the cars behind you honking; satisfy yourself that the approaching traffic is either stopping or far enough away so that you can safely make your left turn.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a left turn accident in Ontario, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer to learn about your rights. Contact lawyer Andrew Iacobelli of Iacobelli Law Firm for a free, no obligation, consultation. We can arrange to meet with you at our office or at another convenient location if you are unable to travel due to the severity of your injuries. To request a consultation call us at 416-900-1070 or toll free at 1-866-234-6093 or complete our online contact form here.
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