Left-Hand Turn Car Accidents In Buffalo, New York

Seasoned Buffalo, New York Left-Hand Turn Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys

Jed Dietrich, Esq., is Recognized as a New York Super Lawyer, and Is Fully Prepared To Fight On Behalf Of Any Individuals Who Have Been Injured as a Result of a Left-Hand Turn Car Accident.

---

In New York State, injuries resulting from a motor vehicle accident are the fourth leading cause of death. Over 1,000 individuals succumb to their injuries annually. Motor vehicle-related injuries are the second most common cause of hospitalizations every year, and the third most common cause of emergency room visits. If these statistics reveal anything, it is that personal injury as a result of a car accident is an unfortunately common occurrence. New York State has specific regulations for left-hand turns. This webpage includes a summary of New York State’s rules for left-hand turns, as well as how to determine liability in the event of an accident.

With over twenty years of experience as a personal injury attorney in Buffalo, New York, Jed Dietrich, Esq. is someone you can rely on. He and his team of top rated left-hand turn accident lawyers will fight on your behalf to obtain satisfaction in your left-hand turn automobile accident case. If you are in need of representation, call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. today at 716-839-3939. We are prepared to answer any questions that you might have.

Rules For Left-Hand Turns

All new drivers are required to read and be tested on a Driver’s Education booklet before they can receive their driver’s permit. While these booklets contain plenty of information on the rules of the road, once the permit and driver’s tests are behind them, many drivers become less certain as to the specific rules regarding turns. Both the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and DriversEd.com have up to date information on the proper procedures for turns:

1. Signal and slow down before making the turn;
2. Check your surroundings to ensure the oncoming lanes are clear;
3. Be aware of any pedestrians or cyclists that might be crossing the street; and
4. Turn from your designated lane.

When preparing to make a left-hand turn specifically, the following information should also be taken into consideration:

1. When making a left-hand turn onto a two-lane street, turn into the leftmost lane;
2. When turning left from a two-lane street onto another two-lane street, stay in your lane (if you are in the right lane, turn into the rightmost lane; if you are in the left lane, turn into the leftmost lane);
3. If another driver is turning left ahead of you, allow that driver to complete their turn before moving into the intersection;
4. A driver turning left yields the right-of-way to any oncoming traffic that is going straight or making a right-hand turn;
5. Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the street, on sidewalks, or crossing in front of driveways or alleys; and
6. If turning into traffic from a parking lot, driveway, or alleyway, yield the right of way to any traffic already on the road.

In some states, it is illegal to turn left into the right-hand lane. For safety’s sake, always turn into the leftmost lane, no matter what state you are currently visiting, so as to avoid penalties or accidents.

Jed Dietrich, Esq. recognizes that a car accident can be a life-changing event. For over twenty years, he has represented dozens of clients in personal injury cases and is more than capable of representing you in your claim. Call us today at 716-839-3939 for a free consultation – you will not be charged until we secure a win!

Determining Liability

The rules and regulations regarding left-hand turns are such that, in the event of a left-hand turn related accident, the party making the left-hand turn is typically at fault. According to HG.org, “when left turns are involved, this usually means the driver turning left would be accountable and liable because he or she must yield to all traffic that is moving through the path.” As stated above, when making a left-hand turn, the motor vehicle operator always yields the right-of-way.

In the event of a left-hand turn motor vehicle accident, it is always prudent to seek expert help from an experienced personal injury attorney. They will be able to provide you with the best guidance for action steps to take in the event of a left-hand turn accident. The top rated team of attorneys at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. have represented countless clients in motor vehicle accident cases over the years, and are your best choice when it comes to seeking representation. Call today at 716-839-3939 for your FREE consultation.

Exceptions

Although drivers making left-hand turns are almost always liable in the event of an accident, there are some instances in which they might not be at fault. This would be the case if oncoming traffic ran a red light or otherwise went against a signal, or was driving at inappropriately fast speeds while approaching the intersection. The weather must also be taken into consideration. Rain, ice, or snow could contribute to poor visibility or road conditions that might make it difficult for a driver to slow down or brake in time. In such instances, a driver making a left-hand turn would not be found at fault because the accident was caused by circumstances outside of their control.

No matter the extraneous conditions, all operators of motor vehicles should exercise caution while on the road. The surest way to avoid an accident is to ensure that you are as careful and as observant as possible, whether driving, as a pedestrian, or as a passenger in a car. In spite of our best efforts, though, accidents still happen. If you or a loved one have been injured in a left-hand turn motor vehicle accident you need the best representation possible. Call the Dietrich Law Firm, P.C. today for your FREE consultation. We are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week and we would be honored to discuss your case with you. Do not delay! Call today at 716-839-3939.

---

Call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. immediately at 716-839-3939 so that our aggressive, tenacious and hardworking personal injury lawyers can fight to obtain the best result for your personal injury claim in Buffalo, New York. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee until we WIN for you!

---