When a Nevada driver turns left, they generally must yield the right of way to any driver, pedestrian, or cyclist continuing straight in the opposite direction. The only exception is if there is a traffic sign or signal (such as a left-turn arrow) indicating otherwise. When a collision occurs in a left-turn situation, the driver turning is likely liable, although an investigation and evidence are necessary.
If you have questions about your Nevada crash, a car accident lawyer can help. Most law firms that handle these cases provide free initial consultations for injured victims.
What Are Nevada’s Left-Turn Right of Way Laws?
Nevada’s traffic laws about the right of way and turns are NRS 484B.250 through NRS 484B.270. In particular, NRS 484B.253 addresses which driver has the right of way when a vehicle turns left. Under this law, a driver turning left must:
- Yield to any vehicle coming from the opposite direction and within the intersection
- Yield to any vehicle close enough to constitute a collision hazard
- Use their turn signal
Once the driver legally begins their left turn, drivers coming from the opposite direction must yield to them and allow them to complete the turn.
The driver turning left is usually at fault for this type of collision because of failure to yield. However, fault or shared fault could also fall on the other driver if they ran a red light, failed to yield to the vehicle already in a turn, or were speeding at the time of the crash.
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What Happens When a Driver Fails to Yield the Right of Way?
When a driver fails to yield the right of way as required by the applicable traffic laws, collisions often occur. Understanding who has the right of way when making a left turn is essential to preventing T-bone accidents. These side-impact crashes often result in serious or catastrophic injuries.
Nevada laws allow victims hurt in these accidents to hold the at-fault driver legally responsible. This is possible through an insurance claim or lawsuit.
According to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Nevada requires drivers to carry auto liability insurance coverage of at least:
- $25,000 for one person’s injuries or death in a crash
- $50,000 for all victims’ injuries or deaths in an accident
- $20,000 for someone else’s property damage in a collision
Victims can file a claim and demand fair compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This often results in a negotiated settlement agreement. Alternatively, they can sue the at-fault driver and prepare the case for trial. A settlement is still possible after suing and occurs more often than cases go before a jury.
How Do I Prove Liability in a Nevada Left-Turn Crash?
Proving fault and liability are central to securing a payout in any traffic accident case. When it comes to left-turn accidents, the crash generally occurs because the left-turning driver failed to yield the right of way. To show they were negligent, you must have evidence to document:
- The driver had a duty to yield the right of way
- They did not do so
- Their failure to yield was the proximate cause of the crash
- You suffered damages as a result
A lawyer’s investigation could uncover several types of evidence to help you develop a compelling case against the at-fault driver. This could include:
- The accident report from law enforcement
- Video of the crash
- Eyewitness statements
- Accident reconstruction
- Scene survey
- Relevant medical records
- Physical evidence, such as damage to each car
- Expert testimony
- Paperwork and other documentation of damages
If you work with an attorney, they can manage this investigation and show what happened, while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
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How Can an Attorney Help With My Left-Turn Accident Case?
One of the ways you can make winning a left-hand turn case easier is by working with a car accident lawyer. Nevada lawyers fully understand the complex left-turn laws and how they affect collisions. They can handle your case from start to finish, fighting for your best interests and fair compensation.
A lawyer can:
- Protect your rights
- Ensure you meet the applicable deadlines
- Manage all communication with the insurance companies and other parties
- Investigate your crash and gather evidence
- Build a compelling case to support your claim
- Demand fair compensation
- Negotiate with the insurance carrier
- File a lawsuit if necessary
- Represent you throughout the process
- Offer legal guidance and counsel as needed
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If I Take Legal Action in My Left-Turn Collision Case, What Damages Can I Seek?
You can pursue damages for every loss the accident caused you. A lawyer can fight for these damages on your behalf, including:
- Medical treatment and related expenses
- Ongoing or future care and support costs
- Income lost because of missed work
- Diminished earning ability if you cannot return to your job
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering losses
Most car accident law firms also handle wrongful death cases. You and your family may pursue justice in a wrongful death action if your loved one died from injuries in a left-turn crash.
Personal injury law firms generally represent victims and their families on contingency. This means their attorney fees simply come from a reasonable percentage of the total settlement package or court award, so you never have to pay upfront.
Speak to a Nevada Car Accident Lawyer About Your Left-Turn Accident Case for Free
At Van Law, we provide free consultations for victims hurt in traffic accidents. Our Las Vegas office can review your case with you and help you understand your rights and options and how we can help you seek compensation. We are here for you after your left-turn accident.
Contact us over the phone or online for your free initial case consultation.
No obligation consultations are always free.
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