Are Left-Turn Accidents Automatically the Turning Driver’s Fault in Maryland?

 Posted on January 14, 2026 in Car Accidents

Many people assume that if a crash happens during a left turn, the turning driver is always at fault. That is not always true in Maryland. While left-turn drivers often have a duty to yield, fault depends on all the facts, not just the type of turn. As of 2026, Maryland continues to apply strict fault rules in car accident cases, which makes these questions especially important.

Left-turn crashes are also common because intersections remain dangerous places to drive. In early 2025, the National Safety Council estimated that 18,720 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes nationwide in just the first six months of the year.

Understanding how Maryland law handles left-turn accidents can help you know what really matters after a crash. If you were injured in a car accident, our Prince George’s County, MD car accident lawyer can help review how fault may be decided in your case.

Are Left-Turn Drivers Always at Fault in Maryland?

A left-turn driver is not automatically at fault simply because they were making a left turn. Maryland law does require drivers turning left to yield to oncoming traffic, but that rule does not decide fault by itself. Courts and insurance companies look at what both drivers were doing before the crash.

What Does Maryland Law Say About Left Turns and Right of Way?

Maryland law places specific duties on drivers who make left turns. Under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-402, a driver turning left must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic that is close enough to be dangerous.

However, this rule assumes the oncoming driver is following traffic laws. If the other driver was breaking the law or driving unsafely, that behavior can affect how fault is assigned.

When Can the Other Driver Be at Fault in a Left-Turn Crash?

Left-turn accidents often involve more than one mistake. In some situations, the other driver may be partly or fully responsible.

Examples include:

• Speeding through an intersection

• Running a red light or ignoring a traffic signal

• Driving without headlights at night or in poor weather

• Distracted driving, such as using a phone

• Changing lanes or passing unsafely near an intersection

These details can shift fault, even when a left turn is involved.

How Do Police and Insurance Companies Decide Fault for a Maryland Car Accident?

Police officers document what they see at the scene. This may include vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and witness statements. A police report can be helpful, but it does not decide the case on its own.

Insurance companies conduct their own investigations. They often review statements, photos, video footage, and vehicle data. Because insurers try to limit payouts, their fault decisions are not always neutral.

Why Does Fault Matter So Much in a Maryland Car Accident Case?

Maryland follows a rule called contributory negligence. Under this rule, an injured person may be barred from recovering compensation if they are found even slightly at fault.

This makes fault disputes especially serious in Maryland left-turn cases. Small details can make a big difference in whether compensation is available at all.

What Evidence Is Important in a Maryland Left-Turn Accident Case?

Strong evidence helps show how the crash happened and who was responsible. Much of this evidence is similar to what is used in other car accident cases.

Important evidence may include:

• Traffic camera or dash camera footage

• Photos of vehicle damage and the intersection

• Witness statements

• Police reports

• Vehicle data or phone records

Preserving this information early can protect your claim.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Bowie, MD Car Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a left-turn accident, Serafini Law can help you understand how fault may be evaluated. Attorney Andrew Serafini, Jr., is supportive with clients and aggressive with insurance companies and other defendants. He grew up in the area, remains very active in the local community, and brings more than 12 years of experience to every client he represents. Your case will receive his full personal attention from start to finish.

Call 240-744-1600 to schedule a free consultation with our Prince George’s County, MD car accident lawyer. Calls are answered 24/7, and we offer contingency fee billing. That means you only pay if we win.