There are millions of car accidents across the country every year, and most of those crashes could have been prevented. For the most part, negligence is the cause of auto accidents. Often, negligence is because of a driver failing to adhere to traffic laws. Many crashes are blamed on drivers failing to use turn signals. A turn signal is a way for drivers to communicate when out on the roadways. If you don’t signal, but you change lanes, turn off, or enter another roadway, you are driving unpredictably and could cause a crash because the other drivers don’t know where you are heading.
If you have been in an auto accident because another driver didn’t use a turn signal and made an unpredictable move, you should enlist the help of a personal injury attorney who is licensed in your state. Proving that another driver failed to use a turn signal as required by law can be challenging. If the other driver doesn’t willingly admit that he or she failed to signal, then you will need to look at your other options to prove that is what caused the accident.
Ways to Prove The Other Driver Didn’t Use a Turn Signal
You should ask around to determine if there were witnesses. A corroborating witness can go a long way. If someone can confirm a turn signal wasn’t used, then you can have a successful personal injury claim. If there are witnesses, ask them to provide a written statement of what they saw, how it happened, that a signal wasn’t used, and include their names and contact details.
If you cannot find any witnesses, don’t give up. The crash could have been caught on camera. Dash cameras, traffic cameras, and even surveillance cameras are popular now, and often, they catch car crashes on tape. This recording could be used to show fault and to prove that a turn signal wasn’t used. The investigating officer and the insurance adjusters will also investigate, they will look at the point of impact, the damages, and the injuries, to determine if there are any gaps in either driver’s stories.
Damages That Might Result From a Driver Failing to Use a Turn Signal
If you have been in a crash caused by a driver failing to use a turn signal, here are some of the more common damages that you might have suffered:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Future lost wages
- Future medical bills
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been in a crash caused by a driver failing to use a turn signal, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who practices in your state. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form so a lawyer in your area can help you get your personal injury claim for your car crash underway. Don’t wait until it is too late to file your claim.