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Left Turn Collisions

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at Mike Agruss Law.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Over 8000+ consumer rights cases settled.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

One of the most common accidents involving a bicycle are left turn collisions. Left turn collisions occur when car drivers, who in Illinois are required to yield to oncoming bicyclists making a left turn, make an incorrect, illegal, or misjudged left turn and strike the bicyclist or cause them to veer into traffic. Not only are left turn collisions dangerous, they often result in serious injuries or death.

At Mike Agruss Law, we represent clients in Illinois who have suffered personal injuries from a bicycle accident, as well as family members who have lost a loved one in a road accident caused by negligent or reckless conduct of another person. We know that when a bicycle collides with a vehicle weighing at least 2,000 pounds, the odds are not in the cyclist’s favor and the results can be tragic.

Causes of Left Turn Collisions

Left turn collisions are all too common and are some of the deadliest accidents that can occur. There are a variety of reasons why left turn collisions occur, which can include:

  • The car driver failed to ensure it was safe to make a left turn;
  • The car driver misjudged the actions of the bicyclist;
  • The car driver failed to yield to the bicyclist who had the right of way;
  • There was an obstructed view because of buildings, trees, or signs;
  • The car driver was unaware of the bicyclist’s presence.

It is important for all drivers to pay attention and look before they make a left-hand turn, including paying careful attention to the shoulder of the road and the bike lane. Bicycles are more difficult to see but they are not invisible. Taking the time to ensure that the turn can be completed safely can help save a life.

How Cyclists Can Prevent Left Turn Collisions

The majority of the time, the cyclist is not to blame for a left turn collision. However, all cyclists should do their part to prevent collisions, including:

  • Wear bright colors-The brighter your clothing, the more visible you will be. It is also important to wear reflective gear to increase your visibility to other drivers.
  • Slow down at intersections-Slowing down as you approach an intersection allows you the ability to stop completely if needed.
  • Check for vehicles that are turning-When at an intersection, check for all turning vehicles and move to the closest travel lane to increase your visibility with other drivers.

Even if you follow these precautions completely and ride your bicycle defensively, left turn collisions can still occur. And, unfortunately, these collisions have a higher rate of severe injuries and death. If you or a loved one was injured in a left turn collision, an experienced personal injury lawyer can review your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

It’s important to consult with an experienced Chicago bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and determine if you have a valid personal injury claim or wrongful death claim against a reckless or negligent driver. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, contact Mike Agruss Law, for a free consultation.

We see you as a person, not just a client – and that makes us better at work we do. We listen. We learn your story. And, as we help you get the money you deserve, we go above and beyond in a way most law firms never could and never would. Because we’re not just lawyers. And you’re not just a client. We’re friends, neighbors, family. We’re all people and here at Mike Agruss Law, we put People, First.

Helping our clients is about counseling, advocating, and ultimately solving problems. With years of experience successfully representing the people, not the powerful, we will take care of the insurance adjusters, your medical bills, your property damage, your lost wages, and monitor your treatment so you can focus on healing and getting your life back to normal. Our unique formula has earned us over 900 outstanding client reviews on our website, an A+ BBB rating, and over 120 five-star reviews on Google.  Call 888-572-0176, e-mail us at [email protected], or schedule meeting with us here. We’re here 24/7. 

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