Who Is at Fault for a Left Turn Intersection Collision? | Law Offices of Stuart M. Kerner, P.C.

Left Turn Intersection Collision

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show drivers turning left at intersections is one of the leading causes of car accidents. This is primarily due to the combination of oncoming traffic crossing and increased driving speed. Along with these factors comes a greater risk of death and serious injury. It can be difficult to know what to do and who is at fault when New York car accidents happen.

Who Is at Fault for a Left Turn Intersection Collision?

New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law §1141 states: “The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left within an intersection…shall yield the right of way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.” Additionally, § 1163 of the Traffic Laws of the City of New York emphasizes that no turns should be made at an intersection unless they “can be made with reasonable safety.”

Left turn accidents at intersections are more frequent than many might think. The key reason is that when a vehicle is turning left, they are having to cross oncoming traffic. This requires precision, clear judgment, and respect for traffic laws. However, accidents happen. Sometimes, it’s because of a misjudgment while turning left, or it could be due to oncoming traffic that might not be adhering to speed limits.

It’s a common misconception that a driver turning left is always liable. But the actual blame can be complex, hinging on several factors. Were the oncoming vehicles speeding? Was visibility clear? Were traffic signals functioning correctly? Often, left-turn accidents result from both parties sharing some portion of the liability. Yet, if a driver was complying with New York’s Traffic Laws and was still involved in a left turn accident, the liability could lie with the other party.

The sheer force involved when two vehicles collide while one turns left and the other moves straight can lead to severe injury. It’s not just a minor fender bender. This scenario can cause significant damage to the vehicles and, more devastatingly, to the people inside them. The person turning left has the side of their car exposed, which means they might be more susceptible to injury than the one driving straight.

One of the major concerns with left-turning is the unpredictability of oncoming traffic, especially at busy intersections. In some cases, a vehicle might appear to be at a safe distance, but if it’s speeding, the time to make a safe left turn diminishes rapidly. This unpredictability is why accidents involving left turns can often lead to collisions that are more severe than other types of crashes.

Understanding the dynamics of left-turn accidents is crucial. Always being alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at intersections, can reduce the risk of a left-turn accident. Yet, if you find yourself in such an unfortunate event, it’s essential to know your rights and the laws that protect you. Knowing who is responsible can make the aftermath of such accidents a little less daunting.

Is a Driver Always at Fault in Left Turn Collisions?

Drivers turning left are not always at fault in collisions.

Left turn collisions are usually the fault of the driver who made a left turn, but there can be exceptions. One example is if you turned left on a green light and were struck by a vehicle that ran a red light. You were obeying the traffic laws, but the other driver was not. Another example is if conditions appear safe for turning, but another driver is traveling at an excessive rate of speed. As it is often difficult to know which driver was at fault, a qualified auto accident lawyer can help reach a conclusion after examining the facts.

There are intricate scenarios where left-turn accidents can happen even when both drivers believe they have the right of way. For instance, when two vehicles approach an intersection from opposite directions, and both have a green light, the driver wanting to make a left must usually yield. However, if they both believe they have the right of way, it can lead to a collision. In some situations, malfunctioning traffic signals or unclear road markings can confuse drivers and be a contributing factor to accidents.

Eyewitness accounts and video footage, when available, play a pivotal role in determining who is liable in left-turn collisions. Such evidence can provide clarity on crucial details, like whether a driver ran a red light or if a left-turning vehicle failed to yield the way adequately.

The aftermath of a left-turn collision can be devastating, with drivers often suffering both physical and psychological damages. Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, loss of income, and emotional trauma are just some of the consequences. Determining liability becomes critical not just for insurance claims but also for any potential legal proceedings that may ensue.

In the end, while the general rule points toward the left-turning driver being liable, there are many layers and nuances to consider. An informed understanding of traffic laws and the specifics of each incident is essential to make a fair assessment.

Injury Potential: The Dangers of a Left Turn Collision

Left-turn accidents at intersections often result in severe injuries, ranging from whiplash to traumatic brain damage.

When turning at an intersection, especially without a designated arrow, drivers face an increased risk. The act of turning across oncoming lanes makes this maneuver particularly hazardous. Vehicles approaching from the opposite direction can easily collide with a left-turning car if both parties aren’t cautious. Such scenarios tend to be more dangerous than other types of crashes because of the angle at which vehicles impact, often causing significant damages.

Drivers making a left turn are not only at risk of colliding with oncoming cars but also pedestrians crossing the street and cyclists who might be using the intersection. A split-second distraction or misjudgment can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Moreover, the speed at which a car is moving during a turn can amplify the extent of injuries. Even at relatively low speeds, the nature of a left-turn accident often results in a direct impact to the side of the vehicle, an area with less cushioning and protection than the front or rear. Being on the left side, the driver is more exposed during such impacts, and thus, the potential for serious harm is elevated.

Safety measures, like turn signals, proper lookout, and judicious use of the intersection, are crucial. But even the most cautious drivers can sometimes find themselves in a situation they didn’t anticipate. Thus, understanding the inherent risks of turns at intersections and always practicing defensive driving, especially when making a left, can significantly decrease the chances of a tragic incident.

The Psychology Behind Turning Left: Why an Accident Occurs and How Fault Perception Influences Drivers

The act of turning left requires a driver to cross oncoming traffic, making split-second judgments about the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles.

But why do some drivers still misjudge these situations?

• Pressure from Tailgating Vehicles: Sometimes, the impatience of drivers behind can push a driver to make that left turn when it’s not entirely safe.
• Overconfidence: A driver’s overestimation of their own reaction time and judgment can lead to mistakes, especially in busy intersections.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, fiddling with the radio, or even a deep conversation can pull focus away from the road, reducing the time a driver has to make a safe decision.
• Fault Perception: The concept of blame in an accident is not solely based on traffic laws. Societal norms and personal biases can influence how drivers perceive liability, even if the law has clear stipulations. This perception can sometimes impact subsequent decisions drivers make on the road.

Understanding the reasons behind these mistakes is crucial not only for law enforcement and legal professionals but also for drivers themselves. Awareness can lead to safer roads and reduced accident rates.

What Steps Should a Driver Take After an Accident?

Following a car crash, drivers should prioritize safety, gather evidence, and seek legal counsel.

In Woodlawn and surrounding communities, left turn collisions can occur. Whether the crash happened in oncoming traffic or while you were making a left turn, you may be facing a complicated legal process. From determining the cause to protecting your rights, you need an experienced vehicle accident lawyer who knows how to navigate the New York traffic laws.

• Gathering Crucial Information: It is imperative for the disputing parties to gather all essential details at the scene of the car collision. This includes the names, addresses, and contact details of all parties involved, license plate numbers, and insurance details. If possible, taking photographs or videos of the scene, damages to the car, and any visible injuries can provide valuable evidence for future analysis.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical care post-collision. Some injuries might not manifest immediately and could have lifelong implications. Proper documentation of any medical care received can play a vital role if a claim becomes necessary.
• Consult a Lawyer: As the action begins to unfold, having a knowledgeable lawyer by your side is invaluable. They can guide you through the complexities of a legal case, from initial consultations to potential court action. A lawyer can provide a thorough analysis of the incident, ensuring that all evidence is considered, especially in nuanced scenarios like a left-turn accident.
• Understand the Settlement Process: While many believe that a case typically goes straight to trial, it’s more common for resolutions to be reached outside of court. An effective lawyer can often negotiate with insurance companies or opposing counsel to secure a fair settlement, avoiding lengthy court proceedings.
• Stay Informed About Social Security Disability: For those facing severe injuries, understanding disability benefits can be crucial. If the damages from the car collision prevent you from working for a longer period, you might be eligible for benefits. Consulting with a professional can ensure you don’t miss out on any potential support.

Ultimately, navigating the aftermath of a crash requires prompt action, comprehensive documentation, and informed decision-making. Being proactive and well-informed can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

Let Our Accident Lawyers Navigate the Complexities of Traffic Accidents and Secure Your Damages

The Law Offices of Stuart M. Kerner, P.C. can provide a free consultation if you’ve been involved in a collision. Our team of accident lawyers has the experience needed to determine the facts and decide how to proceed. Do not wait for the other driver to claim you were responsible for the collision when it may not have been your fault. Call us at 718-796-7900 as soon as possible to discuss the situation and your options.