The Hidden Dangers of Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents
How a motorcycle accident lawyer can help after a left-turn collision
You could be riding your motorcycle down a familiar road. It’s a clear day with no traffic in sight, until a car suddenly turns left right in front of you. You hit the brakes, but it’s too late. Now, you're dealing with serious injuries, hefty medical bills, lost income, and a difficult insurance claim.
Left-turn motorcycle accidents happen fast. They often leave riders injured, confused, and asking who is to blame. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to know how fault is determined and what you can do to stay safe and protect your rights.
Why are left-turn motorcycle accidents so dangerous?
Left-turn crashes are one of the deadliest types of motorcycle accidents, and they happen more often than you might think. The most common scenario is when a car or truck turns left across traffic and cuts off an oncoming motorcycle.
Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see. When lack of visibility is combined with speed, misjudgment, or distracted driving, you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Riders don’t have airbags or steel frames to protect them. In these crashes, motorcyclists often suffer serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or worse.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 42% of fatal motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle occur when that vehicle is turning left. Most incidents occur at intersections, during daylight hours, and without alcohol being involved. That tells us this isn’t just about reckless behavior; it’s about visibility and timing.
Who is usually at fault in a left-turn motorcycle crash?
In most cases, the driver making the left turn is considered at fault. Left-turning drivers are required to yield to oncoming vehicles, including motorcycles. That means if a car turns left and hits a motorcyclist who had the right of way, the turning driver is typically responsible.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often blame the victims of crashes. Motorcyclists sometimes get an unfair reputation for being reckless, which can lead insurance adjusters to look for reasons to reduce or deny claims. If you’re involved in a left-turn accident, the insurance company might say:
- You were going too fast
- You weren’t wearing a helmet or visible gear
- You didn’t have your headlights on
- You could have avoided the crash
That’s why it’s important to gather evidence after the crash. Photos, witness statements, and a police report can make a huge difference in proving what really happened. Also, be careful when speaking to the insurance company. Don’t give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first. Even innocent-sounding comments, such as “I didn’t see the car” or “I feel okay,” can be twisted and used against you.
What if the driver says they didn’t see me?
This is one of the most common excuses: “I didn’t see the motorcycle.” While that may be true, it’s not a valid legal defense. Drivers are responsible for checking their surroundings and yielding the right of way, especially at intersections. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, but that’s no excuse.
Research shows that the human brain is wired to scan for larger objects, such as cars and trucks, rather than smaller ones, like motorcycles or bicycles. It’s called inattentional blindness, and it can be deadly.
What should I do after a left-turn motorcycle accident?
If you’re ever in a crash, take these steps:
- Call 911: Report the motorcycle accident and request medical help immediately, even if you think you’re okay.
- Get photos: Take pictures of the crash scene, your injuries, both vehicles, skid marks, and traffic signs.
- Speak with witnesses: Gather names and contact information from witnesses at the scene, as they may be able to provide valuable insights into what actually happened.
- Don’t admit fault: Even saying “I’m sorry” could be used against you later.
- Get medical care: Follow all your doctor’s advice, keep records of everything, and avoid any activities that worsen or disprove your injuries.
- Seek legal help: An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can deal with the insurance company and help you get the compensation you deserve.
What kind of compensation can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
If you’re injured in a left-turn motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover money for:
- Medical bills (both current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of future income
- Pain and suffering
- Damage to your motorcycle and gear
- Emotional distress or PTSD
It's important to wait until an attorney has accurately valued your claim, so you receive compensation for the full extent of your damages, both current and future.
Get the legal support you need after a left-turn motorcycle crash
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Rockville, Bethesda, or anywhere in the DMV, don’t let the insurance companies get leverage over your claim. The Law Offices of Stuart L. Plotnick, LLC is ready to make sure your story is heard, your injuries are taken seriously, and your compensation reflects what you’ve truly lost.
When you schedule your free consultation, there's no pressure to hire us. You get a one-on-one conversation with an experienced attorney who’s handled countless motorcycle crash claims just like yours. We’ll review what happened, explain your rights, and map out a legal strategy that makes sense for your case.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay us a dime unless we secure a favorable outcome for you. To get started, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our dedicated legal team.
“I called Mr. Plotnick about the car accident my wife was involved in. Mr. Plotnick took his time and answered all my questions and greatly helped me fully understand the process. I would not hesitate to send any of my family and friends to his services.” - Adriana, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐