Left Turn Car Accident Attorneys in Albany, NY 

Left turns can be tricky. One moment, you think you’ve got enough time to make it across the intersection. And the next, you could be dealing with the aftermath of a crash.  

These accidents are some of the most dangerous collisions on our roads. If you’ve been in one, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed.   

Let our trusted car accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, help. We have helped countless people in Albany get through situations just like yours. We’ll handle the legal side of things so you can focus on healing and moving forward. 

What’s Causing Left Turn Crashes in Albany so Often? 

When you're making a left turn, the timing has to be just right. Even a small miscalculation can have big consequences. Here are some of the top reasons these accidents happen in Albany: 

Driver Misjudgment: Estimating the speed and distance of oncoming traffic isn’t always easy. Maybe you thought you could make it before the light turned red. But the car coming toward you was moving faster than you realized. It’s a common mistake, especially on busy roads like Central Avenue. 

Distractions Behind the Wheel: We all know distracted driving is a problem, but during a left turn? It’s downright dangerous. Checking your phone or adjusting your GPS can pull your attention away from the road for just a second, but that’s all it takes for a collision to happen. Insurance companies love to play tricks when assigning fault when they get wind of a potential distraction behind the wheel. 

Traffic Signal Issues: Ever rushed to beat a yellow light? Or maybe you didn’t see that tiny “no left turn” sign? Violating traffic signals at intersections like those on Delaware Avenue is another leading cause of these accidents. Studies of Albany County car accidents show that disregarding traffic control devices was a substantial factor in nearly 10% of car accidents that required ER treatment.

Poor Visibility: Let’s not forget Albany’s snowy winters. Between icy windshields, early sunsets, and heavy snowfall, seeing oncoming traffic or pedestrians can be a serious challenge. If you’ve ever squinted through a snowstorm on Washington Avenue, you know what we’re talking about. 

Accidents can happen to anyone, and understanding why they occur is the first step to preventing them. 

Left Turn Car Accident Injuries Aren't Minor 

We’re not just talking about bumps and bruises here. Car accidents can cause life-changing injuries, and the recovery process is often long and exhausting. Here are some of the most common injuries we’ve seen: 

Whiplash: If your head jerked forward during the collision, you might feel stiffness or pain in your neck. Whiplash might seem minor at first but trust us. It can make day-to-day activities unbearable. Disc herniations can cause severe limitations and pain. 

Broken Bones: Whether it’s your arm, leg, or ribs, fractures from the impact of a crash can take weeks or months to heal. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary. 

Head Injuries: Concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries can leave you feeling disoriented, forgetful, or even permanently disabled. It’s scary stuff. You may not be able to fully diagnose your injuries until you have the most important diagnostic test there is in a personal injury case. 

Spinal Cord Damage: Back pain or, worse, mobility issues can turn your life upside down after an accident like this. 

If you’re a pedestrian or cyclist who was hit during a left turn, the injuries can be even worse. It’s heartbreaking to think about, but knowing you have support, and options can make all the difference. 

How Can You Prove Fault in a Left Turn Car Accident? 

Figuring out who’s to blame isn’t always straightforward. Every situation is different, but here’s what typically happens: 

Right-of-Way Rules: In New York, drivers making a left turn have to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. If the other driver didn’t yield and caused the crash, they’re usually at fault.  

Evidence Tells the Story: We’ll dig into the details—was there a traffic camera at the intersection? Did a witness see the other driver speed through a red light? These pieces of evidence are critical to building your case. 

Shared Fault: In some cases, both drivers share some blame. New York’s comparative negligence law means you can still recover compensation, even if you were partially at fault. Insurance companies analyze accidents like this all the time. Let’s say you were 20% responsible—your settlement might be reduced by that amount, but you can still get the financial help you need. 

At the end of the day, it’s our job to sort through the details and make sure your side of the story is heard. 

Left Turn Car Crash? 4 Steps to Take Right Away 

After an accident, most people feel extremely stressed out. Your mind is racing with questions. “What should I do now?” “How bad is the damage?” “What if the insurance company gives me trouble?” Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you need to do: 

Get Medical Help Right Away: You could have hidden injuries like internal bleeding or a concussion. Visiting a doctor ensures you get treated and creates a medical record for your case. Your New York No-Fault insurance will pay for your treatments after a car crash, so you don’t need to be worried about owing out of pocket.  

Take Photos and Notes: Snap pictures of the vehicles, the intersection, and your injuries. Write down everything you remember about what happened. Did someone see the accident? Get their contact information too. 

Call the Police: A police report adds an official account of the crash, which can be incredibly helpful when dealing with insurance companies or going to court. Remember: contacting the police doesn’t mean you don’t have to fill out an MV-104 form. 

Reach Out to Us: Let our team handle the rest. We’ll take the burden off your shoulders and guide you through every step of the process. Getting in a minor accident that wasn’t your fault doesn’t mean you don’t need a lawyer. 

Taking these steps can make a big difference when it’s time to fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Tips on How to Avoid Left Turn Car Accidents 

We’re all about preventing accidents before they happen. When it comes to left turns, a little extra caution goes a long way: 

Always Use Your Signal: It sounds simple, but letting other drivers know your intentions can prevent misunderstandings and sudden stops. 

Wait for a Clear Opening: Don’t rush! If you’re not sure you have enough time to make your turn, it’s better to wait and be safe. 

Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: People on foot or bike are especially vulnerable, so double-check crosswalks and bike lanes before you turn. 

Be Extra Careful in Bad Weather: Snow, rain, or fog can make it harder to see what’s coming. Slow down and stay alert during Albany’s unpredictable winters. 

By staying mindful and taking your time, you can help make Albany’s roads safer for everyone. 

Let Horn Wright, LLP, Take It from Here 

Dealing with a car accident is tough. You’re probably feeling frustrated and unsure about what to do next. That’s where our team steps in. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’re not just personal injury lawyers. We’re people who care about what you’re going through. We’ve helped Albany residents recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional pain after accidents just like yours. Our attorneys know the ins and outs of New York’s traffic laws, and we’ll fight to make sure you get the justice you deserve. 

Contact us today for a free consultation, and have one of Albany’s top law firms start working on your case right away.