Understanding who is at fault in a left-hand accident in California depends on traffic laws, the driver's behavior, and conditions. In California, left-hand turn accidents are not just common, they're complicated. Figuring out who caused the crash isn't always easy. While the driver making the left turn is often blamed, that's not always the case. Things like traffic signals, who had the right-of-way, and how both drivers were acting can all impact who's at fault.

If you've been in a left-hand turn auto accident in California, this guide will help you understand the laws, how fault is determined under California Vehicle Code § 21801, and what you need to know about left-turn accident liability in California to protect your legal rights.

(This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need legal assistance, please contact a qualified attorney. Any references to laws or cases are for context only and do not serve as legal interpretation. Past results are not a guarantee or warranty of future outcomes. No attorney-client relationship is formed here.)

Left Turn Laws in California You Need to Know

California has clear laws that outline how drivers should make left-hand turns and when they must yield to others. Two important laws, California Vehicle Code § 21801 and California Vehicle Code § 22100(b), guide both the responsibility and the proper way to complete a left turn safely.

California Vehicle Code § 21801

This law states that drivers turning left must yield the right-of-way to oncoming vehicles that are close enough to be a hazard. Even if a driver begins a turn and then realizes traffic is too close, they must still yield.

Key Takeaways:

• Wait for oncoming traffic to pass before turning left.
• Yield to all vehicles that could be a danger when turning.
• If it's not safe to turn, you must wait—even if you're already partially into the intersection.

California Vehicle Code § 22100(b)

This code explains how to make a legal and safe left-hand turn at an intersection. It focuses on the driver's position before and during the turn.

Here's what it says:

• A driver should approach the left turn from the extreme left lane available for their direction.
• Do not start the turn until you are inside the intersection.
• You may complete the turn into any lane that is lawfully available in the direction you're heading.
• On a three-lane road ending at a two-way intersection, a driver in the middle lane can turn left into any valid lane on the crossroad.

Together, these two laws provide the foundation for determining left turn accident liability in California and are often used in accident investigations and legal claims.

Who Is at Fault in a Left-Turn Accident in California?

California follows what's known as a "fault-based" system when it comes to car accidents. This means that the driver who is legally responsible for causing the crash is also financially responsible for the injuries and property damage that result. So, if you're involved in a left-turn accident, the key question becomes: Who caused the collision?

In general, the driver making the left turn is more likely to be found at fault. That's because turning across oncoming traffic carries more risk and comes with a higher duty to yield. But every situation is different, and the fault is never automatic.

When the Left-Turning Driver May Not Be Liable:

There are several situations where the driver turning left might not be the one to blame:

• The other vehicle was going too fast for the conditions or the posted speed limit.
• The other driver ignored a traffic signal or failed to stop at a stop sign.
• A sudden obstacle, like a jaywalking pedestrian, caused the turning driver to slow or stop unexpectedly.
• The approaching driver was distracted, for example, texting or not watching the road.
• The other driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Other Important Factors That Can Affect Fault in Left-Turn Accidents:

• Poor weather or low visibility: Drivers should slow down and use extra caution. Failing to do so may be considered negligence.
• Bad road design or broken signals: If an intersection is hard to navigate, it may be harder to assign clear fault.
• Actions of third parties, like a cyclist weaving through cars or another driver waving someone through, can also complicate faults.

Because of these factors, faults are often shared between drivers. California’s comparative negligence rule means that even if you're partially at fault, you can still recover damages, just at a reduced amount based on your share of responsibility.

If you're unsure about your situation, speaking with an auto accident attorney can help you better understand where fault might lie in your case.

Comparative Negligence in Left Turn Collisions: Can Both Drivers Be at Fault?

California follows a comparative negligence rule. That means more than one person can share fault for a crash.

Here's how it works:

• If you were 30% at fault and the other driver was 70%, your damages are reduced by 30%.
• You can still collect compensation, even if you were partly to blame.

Example: A driver turns left and gets hit by a speeding oncoming car. A court may decide both drivers share fault, and damages are split accordingly.

This rule encourages fair outcomes, especially in complex accidents.

Common Left Turn Accident Scenarios and Who's Liable

T-Bone Accident While Turning Left

This happens when the front of an oncoming car hits the side of a vehicle making a left turn. Usually, the turning driver is at fault, but not always.

Multi-Lane Yielding Situations

If a driver is waved through by one lane of traffic but fails to see a car coming in another lane, they may still be at fault for failing to check all lanes.

When a Car Passes on the Left During a Left Turn

If a car tries to pass another vehicle on the left as that vehicle turns left, the passing driver may be at fault.

Intersection Without Signals vs. Protected Turns

At unprotected intersections, left-turning drivers must be extra cautious. In contrast, protected green arrows give the turning driver the right-of-way.

These scenarios show why each case needs careful legal review.

Left-Turn Car Accident Compensation for Damages

California law gives you the right to seek financial compensation—not just for your bills, but for everything you've endured. That includes the physical pain, the emotional toll, and the ways your life has been disrupted by someone else's careless decision on the road.

What Can You Be Compensated For?

In most left-turn accident cases, compensation may include:

• Medical expenses, including hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy
• Lost wages if your injuries cause you to miss work or limit your ability to earn income
• Pain and suffering, which covers physical pain, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life
• Property damage, such as repairs or replacement for your vehicle

How Does the Process Work?

Once a claim is submitted, an insurance adjuster will typically be assigned to assess your case. They'll examine things like accident reports, photos, statements, and medical records to evaluate the value of your claim. But remember, insurance companies may try to settle for less than your claim is worth.

That's why many people choose to work with a personal injury attorney, who can help gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit to pursue a better outcome in court.

Getting proper legal help can make a big difference in the total amount you recover and how quickly your case is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the turning car always fault in a left-turn accident?

No, not in every case. While left-turning drivers are usually assumed to be at fault because they must yield to oncoming traffic, that's not the full story. The fault can shift if the other driver was breaking traffic laws or behaving irresponsibly. For example, if the oncoming driver was speeding, distracted by their phone, or ran a red light, they may share or even bear full responsibility for the crash. Every case needs to be reviewed based on the exact facts.

What happens if both drivers share fault?

In California, fault is not an all-or-nothing issue. The state follows a system called "comparative negligence." This means each driver is assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions. For example, if you are found to be 40% at fault and the other driver 60%, you can still recover compensation, just reduced by 40%. So instead of receiving $10,000 in damages, you would receive $6,000. This system helps ensure fairness, especially in complex accidents.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes, you can. California law allows accident victims to receive compensation even if they were partly responsible for the collision. If you are not entirely at fault, you are entitled to seek damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. The amount you receive will simply be adjusted based on your percentage of fault. This helps people who made a small mistake but were still injured due to another driver's poor decisions.

Is it necessary to hire an attorney for a left-turn accident case?

It's not required by law, but it's often one of the smartest decisions you can make. Left-turn accident claims can be complicated, and insurance companies will look for ways to reduce or deny your claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, gather strong evidence, and negotiate on your behalf to get the compensation you deserve. If negotiations fail, your attorney can also file a lawsuit and represent you in court, increasing your chances of a fair outcome. It's highly recommended. A  California car accident lawyer can protect your rights, build your case, and help you get a fair settlement.

Get Legal Help for Left-Hand Car Accident with Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C.

A left-hand turn auto accident in California can be confusing, painful, and expensive. Fault isn't always clear, and insurance companies don't always play fair.

Our approach is guided by compassion, integrity, and a deep knowledge of California traffic laws, including California Vehicle Code § 21801, left turn accident liability, and the rules around comparative negligence.

Whether your case is settled outside of court or goes to trial, our mission remains the same: to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

Call Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. at 323-524-8994 for a free, no-obligation consultation with a California left-turn accident attorney.