Left-turn collisions are one of the most common types of crashes in Westchester County, especially at busy intersections in White Plains, Yonkers, Mount Vernon, and New Rochelle. These crashes often happen quickly and without warning, leaving drivers shocked, injured, and unsure who is responsible. While many people assume the turning driver is always at fault, New York law looks at several factors before fault is assigned. When liability is disputed, having a lawyer becomes essential. As Westchester auto accident attorneys, we help injured drivers understand their rights and build strong claims based on clear evidence.
Understanding New York’s Right-of-Way Laws
In New York, a driver making a left turn must wait until the path is completely clear. This rule applies whether the driver is turning at a traffic light, a stop sign, or without any traffic control. If the turning driver fails to yield to oncoming traffic, they are usually considered at fault.
Right-of-way laws also apply to pedestrians and cyclists. If a driver turns left across a crosswalk where someone is walking or biking with the signal, the turning driver is responsible for yielding.
However, right-of-way is only part of the picture. If the oncoming driver was speeding, ignored a red light, or acted recklessly, that behavior may shift some or even most of the fault away from the turning driver.
Evidence Used to Determine Fault
When insurance companies evaluate a left-turn accident, they rely heavily on objective evidence. This includes dashcam footage, traffic camera recordings at intersections, and surveillance from nearby businesses. Police reports carry significant weight because responding officers document statements, road conditions, vehicle positions, and any violations observed at the scene.
Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and debris patterns also help recreate how the crash occurred. Medical records showing injury timing and severity can support the timeline of events. Witness statements are another key piece of evidence, especially when both drivers claim to have had the right-of-way.
Because fault decisions are rarely based on one piece of evidence, the more documentation available, the stronger the case becomes. That is where a lawyer can be especially helpful.
Exceptions Where the Turning Driver Is Not at Fault
While many left-turn accidents are blamed on the turning driver, there are important exceptions. A turning driver may not be at fault when the oncoming driver was speeding or driving aggressively. The same is true if the oncoming driver ran a red light, was distracted by a phone, or entered the intersection illegally. In some cases, another hazard in the roadway, such as debris or a stalled car, may force the turning driver to make a move they otherwise would not have made.
These situations often lead to shared fault, where each driver is assigned a percentage of responsibility based on their actions.
Why You Need a Lawyer in Disputed Liability Cases
Left-turn collisions often become complicated because each driver believes they had the right-of-way. Insurance companies use these disputes to delay or deny claims. When you work with us at Gash & Associates, P.C., we gather the evidence needed to show exactly what happened, protect you from unfair blame, and push back against insurance companies trying to reduce your compensation. We understand how New York’s right-of-way laws apply in real-world crashes and how to prove liability even when the facts are unclear.
FAQ
Is the left-turning driver always at fault?
No. The turning driver is usually considered responsible, but not always. If the oncoming driver was speeding, distracted, or ran a light, they may share or carry all of the blame.
Can multiple drivers share fault?
Yes. New York allows shared fault, meaning each driver can be assigned a percentage of responsibility based on their actions.
Will my insurance cover me if I was making a left turn?
Coverage depends on your policy and how fault is assigned. Even if you are partly at fault, you may still qualify for compensation under New York’s no-fault insurance system.
If you were involved in a left-turn accident in Westchester County and need help understanding your options, call us at Gash & Associates, P.C. in White Plains at (914) 328-8800. We are here to protect your rights and help you move forward.
