Some delivery companies have taken steps to control the way that drivers operate their vehicles. One notable step is that these companies instruct drivers not to turn left. This does not mean that they never do it, but simply that they should avoid it and take another route when possible.
But why would these companies be opposed to left turns? Isn’t it more efficient to turn left once, rather than taking multiple right turns to go around the block and arrive at the same destination?
Multiple reasons
There are a few different reasons why companies do this. One is efficiency itself. Left turns actually take longer because drivers often have to wait for opposing traffic to clear. All of this time spent waiting in traffic not only wastes the driver’s time, but also the fuel in the vehicle. If drivers can plan their route to hit more stops and take more right turns, it is actually a more productive use of their time and resources.
Additionally, left turns drastically increase the odds of a car accident. A driver who is turning left will cross in front of opposing traffic lanes, in most cases. This means there is a higher inherent risk of an accident, and any crash can be very costly for a delivery company. Even when avoiding a left turn takes slightly longer, it is seen as worth it because of the increased safety and lower crash risk.
Seeking compensation
Even with these standards in place, serious truck accidents do occur. Those who have been injured need to know how to seek financial compensation.