Left turns are among the most dangerous moments a rider faces in city traffic. When a driver hurries through an intersection and makes a left turn, motorcycle riders often have only a brief moment to react. A left-turn motorcycle crash can turn a calm ride into an emergency in seconds. If you turn to Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs, one of our motorcycle accident lawyers will work to help rebuild your life after a devastating crash.
Why Left Turns Cause So Many Motorcycle Accidents
According to a recent study, the most frequent type of fatal motorcycle crashes involves a vehicle turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
Intersections are problematic because drivers must watch signals, judge traffic gaps, and scan for smaller vehicles simultaneously. In many left-turn crashes, a driver assumes there is more time and space than exists and begins a turn as a motorcycle approaches.
Several common mistakes come up again and again when a left-turn motorcycle crash happens:
- Drivers misjudge the speed and distance of oncoming motorcycles.
- Drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic.
- Visibility problems hide the bike behind pillars, parked cars, or larger vehicles.
Why a Left Turn Is More Dangerous Than a Right Turn
Traffic safety studies show that a left turn is more dangerous than a right turn because the turning driver crosses oncoming lanes instead of merging with traffic. Crossing those lanes exposes a rider to vehicles from several directions at once.
One common left-turn motorcycle crash scenario involves a car starting its turn while a rider travels straight through the intersection. Turning vehicles at intersections often block each other’s view, so a driver looks ahead, sees only cars, and moves forward without noticing the motorcycle. An obstructed view at a busy corner is one factor that makes a left turn more dangerous than a right turn.
Ways Motorcyclists Can Reduce Left-Turn Accident Risks
Riders cannot control what other drivers do, yet they can take steps to make a left turn motorcycle collision less likely. Bright jackets, reflective tape, and strong running lights help a bike stand out against city backgrounds.
Key habits that reduce left-turn risks include:
- Increase visibility with bright gear, reflective elements, and proper lighting.
- Position yourself strategically so you do not sit in a driver’s blind spot as you approach an intersection.
- Ride defensively at intersections by lowering speed, preparing to brake, and expecting turning cars.
What To Do After a Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident
Medical care should come first, even if you don’t notice any significant injuries. Keeping copies of medical records, repair estimates, and work notes about missed time will support an insurance claim for injuries and lost wages. Guidance from a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you avoid mistakes when you talk with insurance adjusters or sign paperwork.
Texas law sets deadlines for filing motorcycle claims. Motorcycle accident victims typically have two years from the accident date to take legal action. Getting early legal advice helps you protect your right to seek payment for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Find Out Why Riders Turn To Our Firm After Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents
When you reach out to a motorcycle accident attorney at Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs, you connect with a team backed by decades of courtroom work and strong results for injured clients across Texas. Our firm will evaluate the crash, explain your options under Texas law, and work to recover fair payment for you. We are standing by to provide a free case review, so please schedule your free consultation online as soon as possible.
