Many accidents occur when a driver is in a turn lane to turn
left. A left turn can be a dangerous maneuver because the left turning vehicle
enters the lane of traffic for other vehicles. It’s one of the maneuvers that
require the most caution to be used.
Most states require in some form that the left turning
motorist is required to signal his or her intent to make a left turn at least
100 feet before reaching an intersection. In addition to giving the proper
signal, the driver is required to make a proper observation that the turn could
be made without endangering a passing vehicle.
The left turning motorist also has the duty to yield to all
vehicles approaching from the opposite direction that are within the
intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard. And in intersections
where there is an inoperative traffic signal especially, motorists have to use
extreme caution.
But a surprising number of drivers neglect to use their turn
indicators or turn them on late as they are turning. According to a report from
2012 by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), turn signal neglect causes
as many as 2 million crashes per year in the U.S. The SAE studied a total of 12
turning and lane-changing vehicles, and found that the neglect rate for lane
changing is 48% and 25% when making turns. Here are some tips for the use of
turn signals:
-
Get into the habit of signaling every time you
change direction. Signal even when you do not see anyone else around because
you might miss someone who needs to know what you are doing.
-
Signal as early as you can. You should signal at
least three seconds before you make your move. You must signal at least 100
feet before a turn if the speed limit is 45 mph or less. If the speed limit is
faster than 45 mph, you must signal at least 300 feet before you turn. But be
careful that you do not signal too early either. If there are streets or
entrances between you and where you want to turn, wait until you have passed
them to signal.
-
If another vehicle is about to enter the street
between you and where you plan to turn, wait until you have passed them to
signal your turn. If you signal earlier, the other driver may think you plan to
turn where they are and they might pull into your path.
These tips may seem like common sense, but many drivers fail
to follow these tips and that is what causes many accidents to happen. So it’s
important to make a habit of properly using your turn signals, even in parking
lots. You should never rely on what other motorists might guess what you do.
Make your intentions known as much as possible.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
