Intersections are among the most hazardous places on California roadways—and left turns are one of the leading causes of serious accidents. When a driver misjudges oncoming traffic, fails to yield, or turns without a clear view, devastating side-impact or head-on collisions can occur in seconds. At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we help victims of left-turn accidents understand their rights, prove fault, and recover full compensation for their injuries.
Why Left-Turn Accidents Are So Common
Even experienced drivers can underestimate the risk of making a left turn. With high-speed oncoming traffic, limited visibility, and split-second decisions, the margin for error is small. Common causes of left-turn crashes include:
- Failing to yield to oncoming vehicles
- Turning on a yellow or red light
- Misjudging the speed or distance of approaching cars
- Obstructed views due to parked cars, trees, or weather
- Distracted or impaired driving
Because left-turn accidents often happen at intersections, they can involve multiple vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists—making them more complex to investigate.
Determining Fault in a Left-Turn Collision
Under California law, drivers making a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic and only turn when it’s safe. This means that the turning driver is usually presumed at fault. However, this presumption isn’t absolute. The oncoming driver may share blame if they were:
- Speeding or running a red light
- Distracted by a phone or GPS
- Driving under the influence
- Engaging in aggressive driving behavior
California’s comparative negligence system allows victims to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault. The key is proving how the other driver’s negligence contributed to the crash—a task that requires strong evidence and legal expertise.
Evidence That Strengthens a Claim
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we know that left-turn accidents can quickly devolve into finger-pointing. To establish liability, we use a combination of evidence sources such as:
- Traffic light timing and intersection camera footage
- Eyewitness testimony
- Vehicle damage and skid mark analysis
- Cell phone and accident reconstruction data
- Police and medical reports
This evidence helps clarify who had the right of way, how fast each vehicle was traveling, and whether either driver was distracted or impaired.
Common Injuries in Left-Turn Crashes
Because many left-turn collisions involve side impacts, injuries are often severe. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones or crushed limbs
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Neck and back trauma
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Even at lower speeds, the force of a T-bone or head-on impact can cause long-term pain, disability, and emotional distress.
Pursuing Compensation After a Left-Turn Accident
Victims of negligent left-turn drivers may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical bills and future care costs
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Emotional and psychological trauma
If a loved one was killed in a left-turn crash, surviving family members may also pursue a wrongful death claim for funeral costs, loss of support, and other damages.
Why You Need a Skilled Attorney
Left-turn accidents often turn into disputes over timing, visibility, and who had the right of way. Insurance companies use this confusion to reduce payouts or shift blame onto victims. Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn has extensive experience dealing with these tactics. We gather the facts, reconstruct the scene, and build a strong case to protect your rights.
If you’ve been injured in a left-turn accident, you don’t have to face insurers or legal battles alone. Contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
