1 Killed, 2 Injured In Orlando Crash
When making left turns, it’s always important to be super cautious. You are crossing one or more lanes of traffic, and if you turn when you don’t have the right of way, you risk a serious accident and even fatality.
Sadly, this was recently the case in Orlando. Two vehicles collided at an intersection, killing one person and injuring two others. The fatal accident occurred on the morning of February 18.
The crash happened in Orange County at Hiawassee Road and Nestor Street. A Toyota RAV4 was heading south on Hiawassee Road in the left turn lane. At the same time, a Buick Enclave was traveling north on Hiawassee Road.
The Toyota attempted to make a left turn to travel east onto Nestor Street and ended up in the direct path of the Buick. The two vehicles collided head-on.
After the crash, the Buick continued north and ran off the road. It went onto the shoulder and hit a tree. The driver of the Toyota and the passenger of the Buick were seriously injured and taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center. The driver of the Buick died at the accident scene. The Florida Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash.
Dangers of Left Turns
Left turns are one of the most dangerous maneuvers on the road due to several risk factors:
- Oncoming traffic. Drivers must cross one or more lanes of oncoming vehicles, increasing the likelihood of head-on or T-bone collisions.
- Judgment errors. Misjudging the speed or distance of approaching cars can lead to crashes.
- Obstructed visibility. Large vehicles or road obstructions can block views of incoming traffic.
- Pedestrian and bicyclist risks. Left-turning drivers may overlook pedestrians or cyclists crossing the road.
- Disrupts traffic flow. Stopping to turn left can slow traffic and cause rear-end collisions.
How to Make Left Turns Safely
To make left turns safely, follow these tips:
- Use your signal early. Indicate your turn at least 100 feet in advance so other drivers can anticipate your move.
- Yield to oncoming traffic. Wait for a safe gap before turning, as oncoming vehicles have the right of way unless you have a green arrow.
- Check your blind spots. Look for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists before turning.
- Keep your wheels straight. Avoid turning your wheels left while waiting; if hit from behind, you won’t be pushed into oncoming traffic.
- Turn at the right speed. Avoid turning too fast or too slow to maintain control and prevent rear-end collisions.
- Use protected left turns when possible. Opt for intersections with dedicated left-turn signals for added safety.
Contact Us Today
Left turns can be dangerous. You can hit a vehicle at high speeds and cause serious crashes, such as head-on accidents.
Crashes can lead to serious injuries and fatalities. Get the help you need from the Kissimmee auto accident lawyers at Draper Law Office. We’ll help you understand the damages you are entitled to receive. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (407) 743-6628.
Source:
wftv.com/news/local/deadly-crash-shuts-down-stretch-hiawassee-road-orlando/46CJLNZVVFBVVEKP57OVWP6SVM/
