Why Left-Hand Turns Cause More Collisions Than Right Turns
Left-hand turns are one of the most dangerous maneuvers a driver can make, especially in busy areas like Tempe. While they seem like a routine part of driving, statistics consistently show that left turns cause more accidents than right turns. If you’ve been involved in a crash caused by a left-hand turn, an experienced accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.
The Risk Factors Behind Left-Hand Turn Crashes
When you make a left-hand turn, you often have to cross oncoming traffic. This creates a wider range of possible collision scenarios compared to right turns, which usually involve merging into slower-moving lanes. Common risks include:
Misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles — Drivers sometimes think they have more time than they do.
Obstructed views — Large vehicles, landscaping, or road design can block sight lines.
Multiple lanes to cross — In areas with multi-lane roads, crossing two or three lanes before completing the turn increases exposure.
The complexity of the maneuver makes it more likely for drivers to hesitate, speed up, or take unnecessary risks—all of which can lead to a crash.
Common Left-Turn Collision Scenarios
In Tempe, left-turn collisions frequently occur in intersections with high traffic volume, such as those near Downtown Tempe or along busy corridors connecting North Tempe to surrounding areas. Some of the most common crash types include:
T-bone accidents — Occur when an oncoming vehicle strikes the turning car on the side.
Head-on collisions — When both vehicles enter the intersection at the wrong time.
Pedestrian accidents — Drivers making a left may focus on oncoming traffic and fail to notice someone crossing the street.
Why Right Turns Are Safer
Right turns generally involve entering a lane with traffic moving in the same direction, which reduces the force of impact if a collision occurs. There’s also no need to cross oncoming lanes, making timing and speed judgment less critical.
However, right turns can still be risky if a driver fails to yield to pedestrians or cyclists. For example, riders traveling through areas like Meyer Park often share road space with turning vehicles.
Intersection Design Plays a Big Role
The layout of an intersection can either mitigate or increase left-turn risks. Protected left-turn signals (green arrows) significantly reduce crashes by giving drivers a dedicated time to turn. Unfortunately, many Tempe intersections only offer unprotected turns, where drivers must wait for a gap in traffic.
Some intersections have medians or offset lanes that make it harder to judge distances accurately. At night, poor lighting or glare from streetlights can further complicate visibility.
How Insurance Companies View Left-Turn Collisions
In most left-turn accidents, the turning driver is presumed to be at fault because they have a duty to yield to oncoming traffic. However, this presumption isn’t absolute. If the oncoming driver was speeding, running a red light, or otherwise violating traffic laws, they may share liability.
Insurance adjusters often use this presumption to minimize payouts for turning drivers. Having clear evidence, such as dashcam footage or witness statements, can make a big difference in disputing fault.
Special Cases: Left Turns Involving Larger Vehicles
When large trucks or buses make left turns, the risks increase. Their wider turning radius and slower acceleration leave them exposed in intersections for longer periods. Collisions involving these vehicles can result in severe injuries or extensive property damage. In such cases, claims might involve specialized rules for truck accidents.
Avoiding Left-Turn Collisions
While not every accident can be avoided, drivers can reduce their risk by:
Waiting for a protected turn signal when available.
Avoiding turns in high-traffic areas during peak hours.
Checking for pedestrians and cyclists before committing to the turn.
Keeping wheels pointed straight until beginning the turn to avoid being pushed into oncoming traffic if rear-ended.
When a Left-Turn Crash Leads to Serious Injury
Even a low-speed left-turn collision can cause significant harm, especially in scenarios like T-bone crashes where the side of a vehicle offers little protection. Victims may face long-term medical expenses, lost income, or even life-altering conditions such as spinal cord injuries.
Conclusion
Left-hand turns remain one of the leading causes of intersection accidents in Tempe. The maneuver requires precise timing, good visibility, and awareness of multiple moving parts—from oncoming traffic to pedestrians in crosswalks. Understanding why these turns are riskier than right turns can help drivers make safer choices and reduce their chances of being involved in a serious collision.
