Left turn motorcycle accidents can be one of the most tragic, as well as one of the most complex when it comes to determining how the accident happened and who is at fault. When a collision occurs when one of the vehicles was making a left-hand turn, turning to Pennsylvania’s vehicle code regarding vehicles turning left is important for determining liability.
What does Pennsylvania law say about left turns?
Pennsylvania Code Title 75 – Vehicle, Section 3322 reads that a driver turning left “shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is so close as to constitute a hazard.”
Vehicle Turning Left
A common cause of motorcycle accidents is when a motorist turning left at an intersection hits a motorcyclist who is passing straight through in the opposite direction; unless traffic signals indicated that the motorist had the right of way, an investigation may find the motorist liable for failing to yield to other motorists.
These collisions commonly occur when the driver of a vehicle does not see a motorcyclist, and makes the turn assuming that the road is clear.
Motorcyclist Turning Left
A less common cause of left-turn motorcycle accidents is a when motorcyclist making a left-hand turn collides with a motorist. In this case, unless the motorcyclist had the clear right-of-way, he would be at fault.
Note: In both of the above cases, the operator turning left is not always 100 percent at fault. If the operator of the oncoming car was disobeying traffic laws, e.g., running a red light, speeding, an investigation could find him at fault.
How to Prove Liability for a Left-turn Motorcycle Accident
If you suffered injuries in an accident caused by a vehicle that was making a left-turn, it is important that you hire a motorcycle accident attorney who can help you prove that the other driver was at fault. If you suffered serious injuries, the state’s limited tort laws do not apply (if you can prove your injuries are serious), and you can file a claim outside of the insurance system.
At Cordisco & Saile LLC, our attorneys will help you to gather all relevant evidence, including any witness testimonies, photos or video footage, police report, etc. Then, we will help you to organize that data to improve your chances of receiving full compensation. If you have questions about your rights after a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, do not hesitate to call us. Contact us now at 215-791-8911.
