Car manufacturers provide turn signals in all vehicles so drivers can signal their intentions to other motorists. Knowing what other drivers are doing is just one way to stay safe on the road. When another driver fails to use turn signals appropriately, that alone can cause serious car accidents and injuries. Not only is it illegal to simply not use a turn signal when driving, it creates a potentially catastrophic situation. Some drivers just do not use their signals and that causes problems. This happens most frequently in the following situations:
- Merging onto a highway.
- Turning onto another road.
- Passing on a two-lane road.
- Pulling into a parking spot or driveway.
- Exiting the highway.
When drivers do not use their turn signals, other motorists cannot anticipate what the driver is doing, often leading to accidents. Not using a turn signal is a negligent action because it can directly cause a collision. These types of crashes are almost entirely preventable.
Importance of Turn Signals
When cars were first invented, they did not have turn signals, but motorists still signaled their intentions by sticking their arm out the window to use hand signals. Bicyclists use the same signals today.
According to the Society of Automotive Engineers, nearly two million car accidents are caused by drivers failing to use their turn signals every year. Whether changing lanes or making a turn, drivers who do not use their turn signals risk causing an accident and injuring themselves and other motorists.
Distracted driving is becoming more common and is one of the leading causes of car accidents. For some drivers, they are too distracted to use their turn signals, which can cause a crash. Regardless of the situation, not using a turn signal can present dangers to everyone nearby.
Using a turn signal is necessary for road safety. Without clearly signaling their intention, drivers who do not use their signals risk causing accidents. Using a turn signal is easy, yet some drivers do not use them, which is in violation of the law.
New Jersey law states that turn signals must be used in every instance. Before starting, turning, or stopping, a turn signal must be activated. In fact, turn signals must be activated at least 100 feet before making a turn.
Why Do Some Drivers Fail to Use Turn Signals?
Whether speeding down the highway, narrowly running a red light, cruising through a stop sign, or not using a turn signal, some mistakes happen. Most drivers do this on accident. However, some drivers have a habit of breaking the laws of the road.
The reasons provided for not using a turn signal regularly are actually somewhat surprising. Some drivers do not use their turns signals for the following reasons:
- They feel they do not have time.
- Laziness.
- They forget to turn them off.
- They do not think it is important.
- They do not signal because they feel other motorists do not use them either.
- They think not signaling makes driving more exciting.
All of these reasons have one factor in common: driver error. Since the driver made the choice, if an accident happens because of that choice, they could be held negligent for causing the accident and any subsequent injuries.
What Injuries can Occur?
When a driver causes an accident because they failed to use a turn signal, it can have tragic consequences. Since turn signals are often used in high-speed situations, not using a turn signal may cause a trailing car to slam into the back of the car that failed to signal their intention. This can lead to injuries, including:
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputation
- Paralysis
Can I File a Lawsuit if the Other Driver Did Not Use a Turn Signal?
When a person suffers injuries in a car crash caused by another driver who did not use their turn signal, the victim may be entitled to compensation. After a crash, the victim only has a limited amount of time to bring a car accident claim against the negligent driver. This is why it is vital to the victim’s recovery that they speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after their accident.
A lawyer may try to get a victim compensation to cover the following:
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost income
- Lost earning potential
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Present and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
Depending on the severity of the injuries, the victim may not be able to return to work for a long time. For many Americans, missing just one paycheck can put them into financial hardship. Many car accident victims do not realize they can try to get compensation for items other than their medical bills. That is where the experience of a car accident lawyer can help.
Mount Laurel Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Office of David S. Rochman Help Drivers Understand the Ramifications of Not Using Turn Signals
Failing to use a turn signal can cause significant injuries. For help with constructing a case against a negligent driver, speak to an experienced Mount Laurel car accident lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman today. Contact us online or call us at 856-751-2345 for a free consultation. Located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.