Turning right at an intersection can seem like a straightforward maneuver, but accidents at right hand turns are all too common and can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities. When a collision occurs during a right hand turn, determining who is at fault can be complicated. Under Arizona law, there are specific rules that determine the responsibility for the collision and the amount of compensation available to the victim.
Arizona is an at-fault state, which means that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages to the victim. When it comes to right hand turns, Arizona law states that a driver making a right turn must yield the right of way to pedestrians and vehicles approaching from the opposite direction. If a driver fails to yield the right of way and collides with another vehicle, they are considered at fault for the accident.
However, there are instances where the victim may also share some degree of responsibility for the collision. For example, if the victim was speeding, failed to obey traffic signals, or was driving under the influence, their actions may have contributed to the accident and may reduce their recovery of damages. This is known as comparative fault, and under Arizona law, the amount of damages a victim can recover is proportional to their degree of fault.
When it comes to compensating the victim for their losses, Arizona law provides for two types of damages: economic and non-economic. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In Arizona, there is no cap on the amount of non-economic damages that a victim can recover.
In sum, accidents at right hand turns can result in serious injuries and even fatalities. Under Arizona law, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages to the victim. However, the victim’s degree of fault may also come into play, and the amount of damages a victim can recover may be reduced accordingly. If you have been involved in a right hand turn accident, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and recover the compensation you deserve.
How can a car accident attorney help me with this type of case?
A car accident attorney can help you in several ways if you have been involved in a right hand turn accident:
Investigate the Accident: An attorney can conduct an independent investigation of the accident to gather evidence that supports your claim. This may include interviewing witnesses, collecting police reports, and examining physical evidence such as skid marks, damage to the vehicles, and traffic signals.
Determine Liability: An attorney can help you determine who is at fault for the accident and the extent of their liability. They can review the facts of the case and apply the relevant laws to determine who is responsible for your damages.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies: An attorney can negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf to obtain a fair settlement. They can also handle any disputes that arise during the negotiation process and can represent you in court if necessary.
Calculate Damages: An attorney can help you calculate the full value of your damages, including both economic and non-economic damages. They can work with experts, such as economists, medical professionals, and rehabilitation specialists, to estimate the cost of your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.
Represent You in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can represent you in court and argue your case. They have the experience and knowledge necessary to effectively present your case and advocate for your rights.
In summary, hiring a car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and recover the compensation you deserve after a right hand turn accident. They can help you understand your options and can provide the guidance and support you need throughout the process.