There are times when you can turn left on red in Texas. In most cases, if you make a left on red, you could get in trouble with the law. If a driver illegally turns at a red light and slams their car into yours, get help from an Arlington car accident lawyer.
The Texas Law Dog is a Hopkins County native who is very familiar with the state’s laws. If a negligent motorist turns left and causes an accident that leaves you with an injury, we can help you out. Contact us to learn more.
When Is It Legal to Turn Left on Red in Texas?
Left-turn laws are outlined in Texas Transportation Code §545.152. If a driver is traveling on a one-way street and stops at a red light, they can turn left onto another one-way street. Other criteria that apply to this situation include:
- The driver must come to a complete stop before turning.
- The driver yields the right of way to pedestrians and other traffic before turning.
- The streets must be one-way only.
- There are no signs that say it is illegal to turn left on red.
If someone ignores these and other laws, turns left illegally, and crashes their car into your vehicle, request legal help. The Texas Law Dog helps those dealing with severe injuries after left-turn accidents. Discuss your case with our Arlington catastrophic injury lawyer.
For a free legal consultation, call (817) 775-5364
What Will Happen if You Turn Left on Red in Texas on a Road Where It Is Illegal to Do So?
Based on Texas Transportation Code §545.401, illegally turning left at a red light is considered a Class C misdemeanor. If convicted, you could be fined up to $200. You may also receive a traffic citation.
Along with this, turning left on red puts you and others in danger. For example, a driver heading straight ahead may not see you as you make your left turn. You could crash your car into theirs, and you may be liable for any accident-related losses.
Alternatively, if a driver chooses to turn left on red illegally and causes an accident, you could seek damages from them. At this point, it may be best to meet with an attorney. They can walk you through the Texas car accident claim process.
What Should You Do if a Driver Causes an Accident While Turning Left on Red in Texas?
Call 911, as this will bring medical professionals to the scene to treat your injuries. In addition, speak with police officers since they can gather information that they will use to prepare a police report. Also, you should not take accountability for the accident and review your case with a lawyer.
Your lawyer can provide details about how to obtain a car accident report in Texas. They can look at this report and other evidence relating to your accident. Your attorney uses this information to determine if you have a valid case for damages.
If you have a compelling case, your attorney may encourage you to ask for economic and non-economic damages from the driver who chose to turn left on red in Texas. Economic compensation may be provided for your car repairs and other quantifiable losses. A judge or jury could award you non-economic damages for emotional distress and other subjective harm.
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How Can You Prove that a Driver Turned Left on Red in Texas?
A nearby surveillance camera could show whether a motorist made an illegal right turn. Your lawyer could help you collect surveillance camera footage. They will also look for other proof to support your case, including:
- Accident scene photos and videos
- Cell phone records
- Witness statements
- Drug or alcohol tests
If you have an abundance of evidence, it may be clear that you are not responsible for your accident. Regardless, an at-fault motorist or their insurance company could dispute your case. Thankfully, your lawyer will advocate for you and put you in a great position to secure 100% of the damages you request.
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Will the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company Provide Damages for a Left-Turn Accident?
It depends on your accident. In Texas, every driver is required to have auto insurance. If a driver makes an illegal left turn and is liable for your accident, you may recover damages through an insurance claim.
Typically, a liable party’s insurance company will do everything they can to contest your claim. The business may say you are partly or fully responsible for your accident. An insurer may also offer a lowball settlement.
When in doubt about how to deal with an insurance claim, request legal help. An attorney can explain how car insurance works in the state of Texas. They will protect your legal rights as you work with an at-fault driver and their insurer to collect damages.
Should You Accept a Settlement Offer After a Left-Turn Accident?
If a driver turns left on red in Texas, they may be aware that what they did was against the law. This could lead the motorist or their insurance company to offer a settlement within days of your accident. The settlement may seem fair, but it could be far less than what your case is actually worth.
With a settlement offer, there is no legal requirement to accept it right away. Rather than risk making a rash decision, examine a settlement proposal with your attorney. You can share your concerns or questions about the offer with your lawyer, and they can advise you on what to do next.
You make the final decision on a settlement proposal. If you are not completely satisfied with an offer, tell your attorney, and they can let the defendant in your case or their insurer know you have declined the proposal. You still have the option to negotiate, and if no settlement is reached, you can bring your case to trial.
Hire an Arlington Car Accident Attorney Who Focuses on Getting You Maximum Compensation
If a negligent driver turns on red in Texas and causes your accident and injury, do not take responsibility. Partner with The Texas Law Dog, and we can help you seek damages from this liable party. Request a free case consultation.
Call (817) 775-5364 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
