Struck by a Left-Turning Vehicle While Bicycling?

Cycling is a popular and environmentally friendly way to get around Los Angeles. However, shared roadways pose significant dangers, especially when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to bicyclists. Among the most common and devastating accidents are collisions caused by left-turning vehicles. If you’ve been struck by a left-turning car while bicycling, the experienced attorneys at McGee Lerer Ogrin can help. Our legal team is dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Call us at (310) 231-9717 or fill out our online contact form to get started. There’s no fee unless we recover money for you.

Inattentive Left-Turning Drivers: A Major Cause of Bicycle Accidents

One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents is a driver making a left turn in front of an oncoming cyclist. California law requires drivers to yield to all vehicles—including bicycles—approaching from the opposite direction when making a left turn. Unfortunately, many motorists neglect this responsibility due to distractions such as:

• Texting or reading messages
• Using cell phones or navigation systems
• Engaging with passengers or other distractions

These distractions can prevent drivers from noticing bicyclists, leading to dangerous collisions.

Drivers Often Try to Blame the Bicyclist

It is common for drivers who strike bicyclists to attempt to shift the blame. They may claim that the cyclist rode off a sidewalk into the street or was not visible. In some cases, these accusations may be genuine but mistaken, while in others, they may be deliberate attempts to avoid liability.

California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that even if a bicyclist is partially at fault, they may still recover damages. However, accusations of fault can complicate the claims process, making it essential to have experienced legal representation.

California Rules Governing Left-Turning Drivers

Under California law, left-turning drivers must exercise caution and yield to any oncoming traffic that poses a hazard. California Vehicle Code Section 21801(a) specifically states:

"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."

Bicyclists are considered "vehicles" under the California Vehicle Code, meaning this rule applies equally to motor vehicles and bicycles. A driver who turns left into the path of an oncoming cyclist is in clear violation of the law, making them liable for the collision.

Unfortunately, some motorists will attempt to shift blame after an accident by accusing the cyclist of riding improperly. They may allege that the cyclist was riding on the sidewalk or suddenly darted into traffic. If such claims arise, the legal team at McGee Lerer Ogrin will work to uncover the true cause of the collision and hold the responsible party accountable.

When Comparative Negligence Comes into Play

California follows a legal doctrine known as comparative negligence, where more than one party may share fault for an accident. For example, if a driver alleges that a bicyclist was riding on the sidewalk and suddenly entered the roadway, partial blame may be assigned to the cyclist.

Even if a cyclist bears partial responsibility, they may still recover compensation for their injuries. However, their total settlement may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a cyclist is found to be 20% at fault, their ultimate recovery will be reduced by the same percentage.

Our left-turn bicycle accident attorneys are skilled at countering unfounded accusations from drivers and their insurance companies. We gather evidence, consult experts, and build strong cases designed to minimize your liability and maximize your compensation.

How McGee Lerer Ogrin Can Help