Who Is at Fault in a Left Turn Accident?

November 15, 2024 Car Accidents

Left turn accidents occur when a vehicle attempting a left turn collides with oncoming traffic, often resulting in severe injuries and substantial vehicle damage. These crashes frequently happen when drivers misjudge the speed of approaching vehicles, become distracted while waiting to turn, or rush through a yellow light. If you were involved in a left turn accident, you may wonder—who is at fault and who is responsible for paying for your damages?

Understanding Nevada’s Right-of-Way Rules for Left Turns

In Nevada, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic when making left turns unless they have a designated green arrow signal. The turning vehicle is responsible for ensuring the turn can be completed safely, factoring in the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. Even with a solid green light, left-turning drivers must wait until they can execute the maneuver without creating a hazard.

Determining Liability for Left Turn Collisions

In most cases, a left-turning driver bears primary liability for these collisions. This often applies when they fail to yield to oncoming traffic without a green arrow, often because they are trying to beat oncoming vehicles, misjudge available gaps in traffic, or become impatient during heavy traffic. 

While most people assume the left-turning driver automatically bears fault, liability in left-turn accidents often involves multiple contributing factors. The oncoming driver may share fault or bear complete responsibility when their negligence contributes to the collision. For example, they may speed excessively, weave between lanes, or drive without headlights at night, limiting their visibility to the left-turning driver.

If an oncoming driver runs a red light and strikes a vehicle turning left on a green arrow, the straight-traveling driver is liable for the crash. Additionally, in situations that involve multiple lanes, a driver who drifts out of their proper turning lane bears responsibility for any resulting collision. Similarly, if a straight-traveling vehicle incorrectly uses a turn lane to pass other cars, the driver may be held liable for any crashes that occur.

Steps to Take If You Have Been Involved in a Left Turn Accident

The moments following a left-turn collision feel overwhelming, but taking proper action protects your rights and strengthens potential legal claims. Here are the steps that you should take in the aftermath:

• Call 911 immediately to file an official accident report. This document provides crucial information for future insurance claims or lawsuits.
• Gather evidence at the scene if possible. Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, the intersection layout, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries sustained.
• Seek medical attention after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Your medical records will provide critical evidence when establishing liability.
• Limit conversation with other drivers to exchanging insurance information, and never admit fault or apologize at the scene.
• Contact a Las Vegas, NV car accident attorney right away to discuss your legal options and begin building your claim.

When you are filing a car accident claim, you need a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer on your side who can protect your best interests and fight for the compensation that you deserve. A Nevada car accident attorney can investigate the crash, deal with insurance companies, and even represent your interests in court if necessary. Do not handle the aftermath alone—schedule a free legal consultation as soon as possible to plan your next steps.