Car crashes happen unexpectedly in a split second. Even the most routine driving maneuvers can cause them, and no amount of vigilance seems to be able to prevent them. Columbia car crash lawyers encourage Missouri drivers to wear their seat belts every single time they're behind the wheel - not just because it is Missouri law, but because they can and do save lives and decrease the severity of injuries.
One particularly common kind of auto accident occurs when a driver attempts to make a left turn and pulls into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Many times, the result is a side impact accident, also known as "T-Bone" collision or broadside accident. These crashes aren't just common - they're extremely dangerous. In fact, they're the second most deadly kind of accident, often causing serious injuries and fatalities to the motorists involved. Common consequences of side impact accidents include broken bones, head injuries, organ damage, whiplash and spinal injuries.
So, where does liability fall in this kind of collision? In most cases, the left-turning driver is liable: often, the turning driver is trying to "beat" another vehicle through a light, making an illegal turn, or failing to pay attention to oncoming traffic - due to drowsiness, distraction, or driving while impaired. However, there are exceptions - if the car going straight ran a red light, for example, or some kind of vehicle or road issue prevented the driver from fully executing the turn,
As you can see, even the simplest auto accident might require a thorough investigation to make a successful claim. If you have been injured in an auto accident or truck accident in Columbia or Jefferson City, you may require legal assistance to receive the proper compensation for your injuries. Do you need an auto accident lawyer to handle your claim, or is it more appropriate to let your insurance company and the other party's insurance company handle it? The fact is, most accident victims have no realistic idea of what their claim might be worth, and it is unlikely that the negligent party's insurance company will tell them.
Speak with the Columbia car accident attorneys at Aaron Sachs before signing any insurance papers, accepting a settlement offer, or giving a recorded statement about the accident. Call us today for a free initial consultation about your case.