Left turn collisions at intersections are among the deadliest scenarios for motorcyclists on Massachusetts roads. These crashes consistently result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Why? They combine high speeds, almost no reaction time, and the fact that riders have virtually zero protection. If you’re trying to understand why these accidents happen and who’s responsible, that knowledge can make all the difference in a personal injury claim.
The Physics Behind Left Turn Motorcycle Crashes
When a vehicle turns left across an intersection, it cuts directly into the path of oncoming traffic. Motorcycles traveling straight through don’t have time to react. In car-to-car collisions, both vehicles have protective frames, airbags, and crumple zones. A motorcycle, on the other hand, forces the rider to bear the full impact force. There’s nothing between them and the other vehicle. Even if both vehicles are moving at moderate speeds, the combined force creates devastating results. Riders get thrown from their bikes, they land on pavement or strike the turning vehicle directly, and the injuries are often life-altering.
Why Drivers Fail To See Motorcycles
Many left-turn accidents happen because drivers simply don’t see the motorcycle. That sounds impossible, but it’s disturbingly common. Several factors contribute:
- Motorcycles have a much smaller visual profile than cars or trucks
- Drivers often look for larger vehicles, and their brains filter out motorcycles
- People misjudge the speed and distance of approaching motorcycles
- Glare, weather, or obstructions reduce visibility
A Waltham motorcycle accident lawyer sees this pattern constantly. Drivers claim they never saw the rider before turning. That failure doesn’t excuse negligence. Massachusetts law requires all drivers to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic before making a left turn. No exceptions.
Common Injuries From Left Turn Collisions
The impact usually strikes the side of the motorcycle or catches the front wheel. The rider loses control instantly. There’s no time to brace, no way to avoid what’s coming. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries from striking the vehicle or pavement
- Spinal cord damage that can lead to paralysis
- Multiple fractures in the legs, arms, and pelvis
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Severe road rash and soft tissue injuries
These aren’t minor injuries that heal in a few weeks. We’re talking about emergency surgery, extended hospital stays, and months of rehabilitation. Some victims never fully recover. Their lives changed permanently because someone didn’t look twice before turning.
Establishing Fault In Left Turn Accidents
Massachusetts traffic laws are clear. Drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming traffic. When a driver turns left and collides with a motorcyclist traveling straight through the intersection, the turning driver is typically at fault. But insurance companies won’t just accept that. They’ll try to shift blame to the rider by claiming excessive speed or other violations.
Proving liability requires strong evidence. You need police reports, witness statements, intersection camera footage, and sometimes accident reconstruction analysis. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, left turn crashes account for a significant portion of motorcycle fatalities each year. A skilled Waltham motorcycle accident lawyer knows how to build a case that demonstrates the turning driver’s negligence and counters the insurance company’s tactics.
The Role Of Right-of-Way Laws
Massachusetts General Laws establish clear right-of-way rules for intersections. Drivers turning left must wait until they can complete the turn safely without interfering with oncoming traffic. This means yielding to motorcycles just as they would yield to cars. When a driver violates this duty and causes a crash, they can be held liable for all resulting damages. The law doesn’t distinguish between vehicle types when it comes to right-of-way. A motorcycle has the same legal protections as any other vehicle on the road.
Compensation For Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents
Victims of left-turn collisions face substantial financial burdens. Medical bills pile up fast, especially when injuries require specialized care. Many riders can’t work during their recovery. They’re losing income at the exact moment when expenses are highest. Motorcycles often suffer total losses and need replacement or extensive repairs.
A personal injury claim can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and permanent disability. In cases involving particularly reckless behavior, punitive damages may also apply. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a left-turn motorcycle crash, Fogelman Law LLC provides experienced legal representation. Our firm understands how serious these cases are and works to hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact us to discuss your situation and learn about your legal options.
