Did you ever notice that UPS trucks don’t turn left (most of the time)? Corporate rules discourage left turns. While the stated motivation for this company policy is to save fuel and emissions, safety may be an additional benefit.
A United States Department of Transportation study found that when traveling through an intersection is the critical pre-crash event, making left turns is significantly more dangerous than other types of travel. Specifically, making a left turn at an intersection was the critical pre-crash cause in 22.2% of accidents. This compares to traveling through the intersection (which was the critical pre-crash cause in 12.6% of accidents) and making right turns (the critical pre-crash cause in just 1.2% of accidents).
Why Left-Turn Truck Accidents Happen
As with all types of truck accidents, left-turn crashes happen for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Distracted truckers.
- Drunk or drugged truckers.
- Drowsy truckers.
- Failure to look for oncoming vehicles.
- Obstructed views.
- Speeding.
- Lack of training or company policy.
Regardless of the cause, a serious injury can result. Injuries may include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and even death. The point of impact and the force of collision will significantly impact the injuries that you may suffer.
What to Do After a Left-Turn Truck Crash
Immediately after the crash, it is important to:
- Call the police and emergency first responders to the scene.
- Gather evidence such as witness contact information and photographs of the accident.
- Get medical attention for any injuries that you’ve suffered.
If you have suffered any serious injury or if your loved one has died because of a truck that was making a left turn, then it is important to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can determine why the accident happened, gather relevant evidence, and make compelling arguments to the insurance company or to the court.
For more information or to schedule your own free, confidential and no-obligation consultation, contact us online or call us directly at 800.800.5678.
