Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
Fault is decided in a left-turn car accident by determining whether the driver making the left turn failed to yield the right of way, whether the oncoming traffic driver also acted negligently, and what evidence shows how the crash happened.
In many cases, the turning driver starts with a greater share of responsibility because traffic laws usually require turning vehicles to wait until it is safe to proceed. That does not mean the turning driver is always fully at fault. Speeding, distracted driving, running a red light, or ignoring traffic signals can shift responsibility to the other driver or divide blame.
Anyone injured in this type of car accident may benefit from speaking with a car accident lawyer in Manhattan to better understand liability, insurance options, and the next steps after a crash.
Why Left Turns Often Lead to Liability
Left turns require a driver to cross opposing lanes of traffic, which creates more chances for a collision than many other driving movements. Because of that risk, New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1141 generally requires a driver intending to turn left to yield the right of way to approaching vehicles that are close enough to create an immediate hazard.
Many drivers assume the turning vehicle is automatically at fault, but that is not always true. We regularly help clients sort through situations where speeding, signal violations, or poor visibility also played a part in the collision.
What Evidence Is Used To Decide Fault?
When drivers disagree about who caused a left-turn accident, the final answer often depends on the evidence left behind. What happened at the scene matters, but documents, physical damage, and outside records usually carry more weight than conflicting stories. Evidence that can be useful in these cases includes:
- Police report: Responding officers may record statements, note road conditions, and list any tickets issued after the crash.
- Witness statements: Neutral witnesses can sometimes confirm speed, traffic signals, or which vehicle entered first.
- Traffic cameras: Video from nearby cameras may capture the moments before impact.
- Vehicle damage: Where the cars were struck can help show direction, angle, and movement.
- Road evidence: Skid marks, debris, or tire tracks may indicate braking or an attempt to avoid the collision.
We review these details closely to piece together what happened and help support a stronger claim for our clients.
Does the Traffic Light Matter?
Yes. Traffic lights can have a big impact when fault is being decided in a left-turn accident. A driver making a left turn on a green light is usually still expected to yield to oncoming traffic unless there is a green arrow that gives a protected turn.
Yellow lights often lead to more disputes. One driver may say they entered the intersection legally, while the other claims the turn should never have been made. In those situations, dashcam footage, witness statements, and the timing of the signal can become important pieces of evidence.
Can Both Drivers Share Fault in Left-Turn Car Accidents in New York?
Yes. New York follows a comparative negligence law, which means more than one driver can share responsibility for traffic accidents. A left-turn driver may be partly at fault for turning too soon, while the oncoming driver may also be liable for speeding or distracted driving.
Our attorneys often explain that shared fault does not automatically prevent recovery. It usually means compensation may be reduced based on each party’s percentage of responsibility.
Common Examples of Shared Fault
Left-turn crashes are not always one-sided. Several common situations can lead to divided responsibility, such as:
- Red light entry: An oncoming driver enters against the signal as the turning vehicle proceeds.
- Excessive speed: The turning driver misjudges the distance because the approaching vehicle was moving too fast.
- No turn signal: A turning driver fails to signal and creates confusion.
- Distracted driving: Either motorist looks away from the road before impact.
- Four-way-stop intersection: Both drivers misunderstand right-of-way rules and move at the same time.
These issues appear often on busy New York roads, including areas such as Midtown Manhattan and Roslyn Heights.
Injuries and Losses After a Left-Turn Crash
A left-turn collision can cause broken bones, airbag injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other serious harm. Medical bills, lost income, and ongoing treatment can quickly create financial pressure after an auto accident.
We help clients organize medical records, evaluate personal injury protection benefits, and determine whether the Serious Injury Threshold has been met under New York law. When another driver caused the crash, additional compensation may be available through a personal injury claim.
Why Insurance Companies Dispute Fault
Insurance companies often look for reasons to reduce payouts after a left-turn crash. They may argue that the turning driver caused everything, or claim the injured person shares more blame than the evidence supports.
Our firm knows how to challenge weak fault arguments with records, witness testimony, and detailed investigation. A prompt legal review can make a meaningful difference when insurers try to shift responsibility.
How We Help Prove Fault
The team at Shulman & Hill investigates left-turn accident cases by reviewing records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting accident reconstruction professionals when needed. These crashes are often more complex than they first appear.
We work to present a complete picture of the collision so clients can pursue fair compensation. Whether a case resolves through settlement or litigation, preparation from the start can strengthen the outcome.
Speak With Us About Your Left-Turn Crash
How fault is decided in a left-turn accident depends on the right of way, driver behavior, and the evidence available after the collision. Quick conclusions are not always accurate, especially when multiple mistakes occurred.
Contact Shulman & Hill today if you were injured in a left-turn crash. We can review the facts, explain New York law, and help you move forward with confidence.