Who Is at Fault for a 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 a New York car accident occurs.
Who Has the Right of Way When Making a Left Turn?
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.”
Is a Driver Always at Fault in Left Turn 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.
What Steps Should a Driver Take After a Crash?
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 that knows how to navigate the New York traffic laws.
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 accident 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.
