Who is At Fault in Left-Hand Turn Accidents?

In most cases, the driver turning left will be found at fault for this type of auto accident. However, there are some cases in which the negligent actions of the other motorist can cause a left-hand turn collision. If not done correctly and carefully, making a left-hand turn can be dangerous. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore the rules of the road when making left turns, resulting in motor vehicle collisions.

What Makes Left-Hand Turns So Dangerous?

Left-hand turns are dangerous for several reasons, including:

• Left-hand turns usually occur at intersections, where multiple lanes of traffic intersect, increasing the chances of auto accidents.
• When making a left turn, the driver must cross lanes of oncoming traffic.
• When making a left turn, a driver will have limited visibility of oncoming traffic, especially if there are parked cars, buildings, or vegetation obstructing their view.
• A driver must be able to accurately judge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles when making a left turn. Misjudgment can result in a driver pulling out in front of oncoming vehicles.
• Oncoming traffic at intersections may be traveling at higher speeds, making it more difficult for a motorist to gauge safe gaps to complete their left turn.

Left Turns and the Right-of-Way

Right-of-way refers to the right to proceed across the road or into an intersection. A left turn can be dangerous since it’s typically up to the motorist to know when to follow right-of-way laws.

If a driver mistakenly assumes they have the right-of-way at a green light, this can result in a car crash with an oncoming vehicle. If the intersection has an arrow, the motorist is required to wait for the green arrow before they can make a left. Most intersections have a round green light instead of turn arrows. At these types of intersections, a motorist must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic.

The failure to follow a right-of-way rule at an intersection can put the driver turning left into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Unfortunately, the oncoming vehicle may not be able to brake in time to prevent a car crash. These types of accidents can be especially harmful since they can take the form of head-on accidents or T-bone collisions.

What Are Common Causes of Left-Turn Accidents?

The most common causes of left-hand turn car crashes include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Making an illegal U-turn into oncoming traffic
• Failure to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Who Is Held Liable in Left-Turn Accidents?

If you live in a no-fault state, such as New York or Florida, it may not seem important who was responsible for a left-hand turn accident, since drivers are required to carry no-fault insurance. However, if an accident victim sustains severe injuries, they may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. By filing a lawsuit, the accident victim can recover compensation for pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses.

Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer? 

Working with a car accident lawyer can be invaluable in cases where left-hand turn accident victims want to pursue a personal injury claim and fight for additional compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, vehicle damage, and other losses. An attorney will investigate the accident, assess damages, and build a strong case that proves the other driver was liable for the collision.

Contact Us Today!

At Friedland & Associates, our car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling complex auto accident claims and know how to negotiate with insurance companies to help you recover the compensation you deserve. If you were injured in an auto accident and your insurance company is refusing to pay you the settlement you deserve, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can discuss your case and explain your legal rights and options, moving forward.