Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents in California: Why They’re So Common and Dangerous

Left-turn accidents are a major danger to motorcyclists on California roads, with around 18 accidents every day. Studies have found that 50% of motorcycle accidents occur when another vehicle is involved, and of those, 40% of collisions happen when a motorcycle makes a left turn. There are several reasons why left turns pose such a risk to motorcyclists.

Failure of Drivers to See Motorcycles

One of the main factors contributing to left-turn motorcycle crashes is the failure of drivers in other vehicles to see the oncoming motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see, especially when making quick glances before turning left. Drivers looking left may not notice the motorcycle coming straight in the other direction. Even when drivers do see the motorcyclist, they often misjudge the motorcycle’s speed and distance. These errors in perception and judgment by drivers are a leading cause of dangerous left-turn collisions.

Complex Intersections

Many left-turn motorcycle accidents happen at busy and complex intersections. In intersections with multiple lanes, medians, and turn signals, the left turn maneuver requires more attention and judgment for all drivers. For motorcyclists, intersections with double left-turn lanes or dual lefts can be especially hazardous. When making a left turn, drivers tend to be looking to their left for oncoming cars and may not thoroughly check for straight-through motorcyclists coming from the right.

Speed and Stopping Differences

The higher speeds and faster acceleration of motorcycles also contribute to left-turn crashes. Motorcycles can reach intersections much more quickly than cars due to their power-to-weight ratio. Even when a driver does spot an oncoming motorcycle, they may make a dangerous left turn based on misjudging the motorcycle’s speed. The shorter stopping distance of motorcycles also plays a role. Motorcyclists often attempt to brake hard or swerve to avoid colliding with a vehicle making a left turn in front of them.

Why Left Turn Crashes Are So Dangerous

While motorcycle accidents of any kind can be serious, left-turn collisions tend to be some of the most dangerous. When a vehicle turns left in front of a straight-through motorcycle, the result is often a high-impact T-bone style collision. The motorcyclist hits the turning vehicle broadside, usually on the passenger side. This maximizes the force of impact on the motorcyclist.

Left turn crashes also often result in the motorcycle hitting the ground and skidding, leading to additional injuries. The lack of protection on a motorcycle means left-turn collisions usually result in serious injuries such as broken bones, organ damage, and head trauma for the motorcyclist. Left turn accidents account for a significant portion of motorcycle fatalities in California each year.

Preventing Left-Turn Motorcycle Crashes

While complex, some things can be done to help reduce the number of left-turn motorcycle crashes:

• Driver education on spotting motorcycles
• Enhanced motorcycle safety gear and protective clothing
• Focus on safe riding strategies and defensive driving techniques among motorcyclists
• Improved intersection designs and use of protected left turns
• Awareness campaigns to make drivers more alert to possible oncoming motorcycles

With proper precautions and awareness, the high incidence of dangerous left-turn motorcycle collisions can be reduced, improving safety for all motorists.

If you’ve been hit by another vehicle while riding your motorcycle, contact us for advice. You can visit our offices at the following locations:

• 10 Commercial Blvd, #206 Novato, CA 94949
• 75 Broadway #202, San Francisco, CA 94111
• 3558 Round Barn Blvd, Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Call us today for a free consultation on (415) 897-4801