Who Has Right of Way When Turning Left?

Understanding who has the right of way when making a left turn is crucial for avoiding auto accidents and legal disputes. Failing to yield properly can lead to serious collisions, injuries, and liability issues. At Joubert Law Firm, we help drivers understand traffic laws and navigate accident claims when right-of-way disputes arise.

Understanding Right of Way in Left Turns

In general, drivers making a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic. This rule applies in various situations, including:

• At Traffic Lights: A driver turning left at a green light must yield to vehicles traveling straight unless a left-turn arrow is present.

• At Stop Signs or Uncontrolled Intersections: The turning vehicle must wait for all approaching traffic to clear before proceeding.

• At Four-Way Stops: The driver who arrives first has the right of way. If two drivers arrive simultaneously, the vehicle going straight has priority.

• At Yield Signs: A driver turning left at a yield sign must let all oncoming traffic pass before completing the turn.

Exceptions to the Rule

While left-turning drivers generally yield, there are a few exceptions where they may have the right of way:

• Green Left-Turn Arrows: If a dedicated green arrow is present, left-turning drivers have the right of way, and oncoming traffic must stop.

• Flashing Yellow Arrows: This signals drivers to proceed with caution but still yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.

• Emergency Vehicles: If an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens, all traffic must yield, regardless of direction.

Consequences of Failing to Yield When Turning Left

Not yielding properly while making a left turn can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Traffic Violations: Failing to yield may result in fines, points on your license, and increased insurance rates.

• Liability for Accidents: In most cases, the left-turning driver is considered at fault if a crash occurs.

• Personal Injury Claims: If an accident leads to injuries, the at-fault driver may be held responsible for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

What to Do If You're in a Left-Turn Accident

If you're involved in an accident while making a left turn, follow these steps:

1. Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone involved is safe and call for medical help if needed.

2. Call the Police: An official report can help establish fault and serve as evidence in an insurance claim.

3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any traffic signs or signals.

4. Get Witness Statements: If possible, collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident.

5. Contact an Attorney: An experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate your claim.

Louisiana Right of Way Laws

Louisiana law provides clear guidelines on right of way when turning left. According to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:122, any driver intending to turn left at an intersection, alley, private road, or driveway must yield the right of way to all approaching vehicles that pose an immediate hazard. Additionally:

• Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:123 states that at stop signs, drivers must come to a complete stop and yield to any vehicle already in the intersection or approaching closely.

• Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:124 clarifies that when entering a roadway from a private driveway, alley, or parking lot, the driver must yield to oncoming traffic.

• Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:125 requires that drivers yield to emergency vehicles when their sirens and lights are activated.

Failing to follow these statutes can result in citations, fines, and liability for any resulting accidents.

Baton Rouge Traffic & Dangerous Intersections for Left Turns

Baton Rouge is known for its heavy traffic congestion, especially on major roadways such as:

• Essen Lane & Perkins Road: A high-traffic intersection where left turns are frequent and often lead to accidents.

• Airline Highway & Florida Boulevard: One of the busiest intersections in the city, where left-turn collisions are common due to high-speed traffic.

• Highland Road & Bluebonnet Boulevard: A heavily trafficked area with frequent left-turn-related crashes.

Being extra cautious at these intersections can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure compliance with Louisiana traffic laws.

Contact Our Lousiana Car Accident Lawyers

If you've been involved in a left-turn accident or need legal guidance on right-of-way laws, Joubert Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced attorneys can evaluate your case and fight for your rights.

FAQs About Right of Way and Left Turns

1. What happens if both drivers think they have the right of way?

If a collision occurs, authorities will determine fault based on traffic signals, road signs, and witness statements.

2. Can I be at fault even if the other driver was speeding?

Yes, even if the oncoming driver was speeding, failure to yield while turning left may still place fault on the left-turning driver.

3. What if a pedestrian is crossing when I’m turning left?

Pedestrians always have the right of way at crosswalks, so you must wait until they have safely crossed before proceeding.

4. Will my insurance cover a left-turn accident?

Insurance coverage depends on fault determination, policy terms, and the specifics of the accident. Consulting an attorney can help clarify your options.

5. How can an attorney help if I was in a left-turn accident?

A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation if you are injured or facing liability.