Right of Way in Left-hand and U-Turns

Intersection accidents typically involve either a car running a red light, or (more often), a car failing to yield the right of way when it is making a left turn.

California Vehicle Code Section 21801(a) provides:

The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or
to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or
private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all
vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close
enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning
movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the
approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with
reasonable safety.

This means that you must wait until it is safe before proceeding with your turn. Intersection accidents often take place when one of the drivers fails to properly yield. This is most often the result of trying to “beat” the other car through the intersection and can cause severe injuries. If a car cuts in front of you and you are injured, you have a claim for negligence. These cases are often disputed, and the other driver is likely to argue that you were speeding, and that you were therefore the cause of the accident.

If you have had an intersection accident, contact Oakland personal injury lawyer Pete Clancy. Pete was named a 2010 and 2011 Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine and is a life member of The Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Outside of the office, Pete is a father, husband and ultra-marathon runner. He can be reached at 925-835-7500.