Pedestrian Accidents From Left-Hand Car Turns

How to Avoid Left-Hand Car Turn Pedestrian Accidents: Laws for Drivers and Pedestrians

A car accident involving a left-hand turn is a common and dangerous occurrence, especially when a pedestrian is involved. Unfortunately, this kind of accident is caused by a driver who is making a left-hand turn and does not see, or does not care, about a pedestrian crossing the street at an intersection. Under this type of circumstance, a driver would be found at-fault for causing the collision.

If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, the experienced team of Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers are always here to help. We will recover all the compensation you are entitled to so that you can focus on your recovery and on the ones you care most about.

To schedule a free consultation at our Los Angeles personal injury law firm, please contact our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.

Considerations for Left-Hand Turns 

There are many rules that affect both a driver and a pedestrian. Among other considerations, a pedestrian accident lawyer will look over the following set of laws when determining who is at-fault:

• A driver must always yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian who is crossing a roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
• A driver must never stop within a crosswalk, as this forces a pedestrian to walk around that vehicle, which can be very dangerous.
• Pedestrians can now jaywalk. If a car is involved in a collision because the driver tried to avoid a jaywalker, authorities will have to determine liability.
• A driver must never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. The stopped driver could be waiting for a pedestrian to cross safely.
• A driver can drive on a sidewalk only when entering or exiting a garage or alleyway. However, that driver must still yield to a pedestrian when doing so.

Anytime a driver fails to follow the right-of-way and causes a pedestrian accident, he or she may be held liable. Left-hand turn pedestrian accidents are so common because many drivers do not abide by safe driving laws. In California, a driver is required to signal about 100 feet before making a left turn. They are expected to check their surroundings to make sure it is safe for them to perform this action. Furthermore, they are encouraged not to cut the corner of an oncoming lane. 

The above stated regulations are all crucial because they serve to let pedestrians know a driver is planning on making a left-hand turn. As mentioned, all drivers are responsible for looking out for any pedestrians in an intersection. On the other hand, a pedestrian has a duty of care, as well. 

Therefore, it is possible for a pedestrian to share some degree of liability. For example, if a pedestrian was intoxicated or looking down at their phone when the accident took place, he or she will share some level of responsibility for causing a pedestrian accident.

California is a comparative liability state, which means that liability -- and any resulting damages -- will be based on an individual’s degree of fault. This means that an aggrieved pedestrian may still qualify for some damages even if he or she is found partially liable for contributing to a pedestrian accident.

West Coast Trial Lawyers Will Fight Your Case

If you have sustained injuries as a result of a pedestrian accident, an expert Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney at West Coast Trial Lawyers can help you get compensation for the losses you have suffered, which includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact us today by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate legal team.