California law requires left-turning drivers to yield to oncoming traffic. A driver who fails to yield and causes a collision is typically at fault. However, there are exceptions that may reduce the left-turner's liability.
How Left Turn Head-On Collisions Happen
Left turn collisions occur when a driver attempts to turn left across oncoming traffic and collides with an approaching vehicle. While technically an "angled" or "T-bone" crash, these often feel like head-on collisions to the driver hit from the front.
- ✓Failure to yield to oncoming traffic
- ✓Misjudging the speed of approaching vehicles
- ✓Limited visibility at intersections
- ✓Yellow/red light violations
- ✓Confusion at intersections without dedicated turn signals
Defenses Left-Turning Drivers May Raise
Left-turning drivers and their insurance companies often try to shift blame by arguing the oncoming driver was speeding, ran a red light, or couldn't be seen due to obstructed visibility. These defenses can reduce your compensation under California's comparative negligence law.
Our attorneys investigate thoroughly to counter these defenses. We gather traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence to prove the left-turning driver was at fault.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the left-turning driver always at fault?▼
Usually, but not always. If the oncoming driver was speeding significantly, ran a red light, or was otherwise negligent, they may share fault. However, the left-turner typically bears primary responsibility for failure to yield.
What if I was speeding when hit by a left-turning driver?▼
Your speed may reduce your compensation under comparative negligence, but you can still recover damages. The left-turner still had a duty to yield and should have seen you approaching.
What if I had a green light?▼
Having a green light helps your case, but left-turning drivers with a green (non-arrow) light must still yield. Traffic camera footage or witness testimony can prove light timing.
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