Car Accidents After Left Turns: Who Is at Fault?

Determining fault is one of the most critical factors in recovering compensation after an accident. Even in no-fault states, it’s important to show how someone else’s negligence contributed to your injuries, especially if your medical bills and other damages exceed your policy limits. In these cases, proving that someone else caused the accident can make a significant difference in your ability to secure compensation.

Left-turn collisions are one of the most common types of accidents—and they’re often preventable. If you’ve been injured in one, gathering evidence to prove that the other party was at fault can make your recovery process easier.

When making a left turn, it’s crucial to ensure the coast is clear before proceeding. But if you’ve already been involved in an accident, the next steps can feel overwhelming. Many drivers worry about whether they’ll be held accountable, especially if they were the ones making the left turn.

This is where Morgan & Morgan can help. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will guide you through the process, helping you determine fault and recover the financial assistance you need for medical bills and other damages.

Why Left Turns Are Risky

Left-hand turns are some of the most dangerous driving maneuvers. If made at the wrong time, they can have long-lasting consequences for everyone involved. If you’ve been injured in a left-turn accident, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is key to building your case.

Proving fault in a left-turn collision requires understanding state laws and gathering the right evidence. Morgan & Morgan has extensive experience handling these cases and can help show that someone else’s mistake caused your injuries.

Who’s at Fault in Left-Turn Collisions?

In most left-turn accidents, the driver making the turn is usually found at fault. This is because most state laws require left-turning drivers to yield to oncoming traffic. Vehicles approaching from other directions have the right of way unless traffic lights or signs indicate otherwise.

Left-hand turns require quick judgment calls. Drivers must:

• Ensure the path is clear from both the left and right.
• Judge the speed of oncoming vehicles.
• Make the turn safely with enough time.

Because of the complexity of these maneuvers, left turns can lead to accidents when drivers aren’t fully paying attention or misjudge the situation.

Why Left-Turns Are Dangerous

Here are a few reasons why left-hand turns can lead to accidents:

• Drivers must use turn signals correctly, but many fail to do so.
• Left turns require drivers to focus on traffic from multiple directions.
• Distracted driving, fatigue, or impairment can make left turns especially dangerous.
• Left-turn drivers often cross one or more lanes of traffic, disrupting the flow.
• Obstructed views can lead drivers to make turns without seeing oncoming vehicles.

How to Prove Fault in a Left-Turn Collision

Most states hold the left-turn driver responsible for accidents unless there are specific exceptions. Here are a few instances when the left-turn driver may not be at fault:

• Running a Red Light or Stop Sign: If the other driver ran a red light or stop sign, the left-turn driver may not be liable.
• Speeding: If the oncoming vehicle was significantly speeding, the left-turn driver may not be held responsible, though proving this can be challenging.
• Unforeseen Circumstances: If an unexpected event, like a pedestrian or animal darting into the road, caused the accident, the left-turn driver may not be at fault.

What to Do After a Left-Turn Accident

If you’ve been injured in a left-turn accident, it’s important to consult with an experienced lawyer. Morgan & Morgan can help investigate the scene, gather evidence like video footage, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Don’t wait—getting accident analysis underway quickly increases your chances of recovering full compensation. Whether you need help understanding what happened or you’re ready to take the next steps, we’re here to support you.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

If you’ve been injured in a left-turn accident, contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We’ll fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.