Determining liability in a left turn accident seems cut and dry. Drivers turning left at an intersection may need to yield to oncoming traffic, but does that mean a left-turning driver is always at fault in a collision? This is not always the case. There are many factors at play in a car accident, and left turn accidents are no exception. If you have been involved in a left turn accident and you are unsure if you were at fault, a professional car accident attorney like those at Flores Law Group can answer your questions.
Why Left-Hand Turn Collisions Happen
Left-hand turn collisions can happen for many reasons. Drivers may misunderstand right-of-way rules or fail to take precautions that help prevent a collision.
A left turn can require a driver to cross oncoming traffic while watching for pedestrians. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains that turning vehicles and pedestrians may encounter each other at intersections.
At a busy intersection, traffic signals, other vehicles, and pedestrians can make a left turn more demanding. People may be in a hurry or distracted by what's happening around them. Drivers may say to themself, "I'm just trying to make this light." Let's review all the ways left-turn accidents can happen.
What can cause a collision:
- Failing to signal before turning
- Failing to yield to oncoming traffic when required
- Not being in the proper turning lane
- Distracted driving
- Driving over the speed limit
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Blocked or obstructed view
- Misjudgment of opposing traffic or turning vehicle's speed
Reading through these, you may have noticed that it would only be the left-turning vehicle's fault in some scenarios. The oncoming car could be liable, or both/all vehicles could share the liability.
For example, the driver turning left needs to utilize their turn signal; while they might have had enough time to make their turn, the oncoming vehicle did not adjust their speed to accommodate their turn. This series of events resulted in a collision where both parties could be held responsible.
Indiana Left Turn Driving Laws
In Indiana, there are laws specifically regarding drivers completing a left-hand turn. In the event of a collision, an investigator will collect information regarding the crash and see if any of those particular laws were broken. A green left arrow permits a driver to turn when the intersection is clear. A driver facing a green light without an arrow may turn when the intersection is clear but must yield to oncoming traffic; pedestrians and other applicable signals must also be observed.
The laws for drivers making left-hand turns include:
- Signaling the intended turn before turning
- Slowing speed while approaching and driving through an intersection
- Yielding the right of way to anyone approaching the intersection or close enough that making a turn would create a danger.
Shared Liability in Indiana
Indiana is a modified comparative fault state. In many cases governed by Indiana's Comparative Fault Act, compensation is reduced in proportion to the claimant's share of fault.
A claimant whose share of fault is greater than 50% is generally barred from recovery.
Different rules can apply to some claims, including claims against governmental entities.
Flores Law Group Is Here to Help
You can help prevent left-hand turn collisions by being an alert and careful driver. Using your signal, not being on your device, and maintaining the speed limit are all simple ways to be a preventative driver.
However, preventative measures only reduce accidents and don't eradicate them. Left-hand turn collisions will still happen, and you'll need to take action when they do. Our team of Indianapolis car accident attorneys at Flores Law Group can help you determine the fault of an accident and get you the best care and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation or give us a call at 317-426-4228.
