Texas Transportation Code section 545.152 requires a driver turning left at an intersection, alley, private road, or driveway to yield to oncoming vehicles that are in the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard. In left-turn crashes, the turning driver is usually at fault. Owsley Law Firm handles these claims statewide and charges no fee unless we win.
Left-turn crashes are some of the most serious collisions on Texas roads, especially for motorcyclists, because the turning car crosses directly into the path of oncoming traffic. Section 545.152 is a single sentence, and it puts the duty to yield squarely on the turning driver.
Insurers still look for ways to shift blame, most often by arguing the oncoming driver was speeding or ran a yellow light. This page explains the rule, the common defenses, and how fault is proven.
Who has the right-of-way in a Texas left turn?
Oncoming traffic. A driver turning left must yield to a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction that is in the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard.
The rule applies to turns at intersections and also to turns into alleys, private roads, and driveways. Turning across traffic into a shopping center entrance on Westheimer is covered just like a turn at a signal.
Is the left-turning driver always at fault?
Usually, but fault can be shared if the oncoming driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was distracted.
Texas divides fault under Chapter 33. A turning driver who misjudged a gap usually carries most of the responsibility. An oncoming driver going well over the limit may share it. An injured person can recover if their share is not greater than 50 percent.
- The oncoming driver’s speed, from event data or video
- Signal phase when each vehicle entered
- Whether a protected green arrow applied
- Sight lines blocked by other turning vehicles
What about a flashing yellow arrow?
A flashing yellow arrow permits a turn only after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, so section 545.152 still applies.
Many Texas intersections use flashing yellow arrows for permissive left turns. The turn is allowed, but the driver must still yield. A crash during a flashing yellow arrow phase usually points to the turning driver.
Why are left-turn crashes so dangerous for motorcycles?
Drivers often fail to see or misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle and turn directly into its path.
Because a motorcycle is smaller, drivers sometimes misread its distance. That is not a defense under section 545.152: the turning driver must yield to a vehicle close enough to be an immediate hazard, whatever its size.
How much is a Texas left-turn crash claim worth?
It depends on the injuries, medical costs, lost income, the turning driver’s coverage, and any shared fault.
Left-turn crashes often involve side or front impacts at intersection speeds, which can cause fractures, spinal injuries, and head injuries. The value of a claim reflects the medical care already received and expected in the future, time away from work, and the pain and limits the injury causes.
Coverage matters as much as injuries. If the turning driver carries only the 30/60/25 minimum, underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy may cover the difference. Any share of fault assigned to you reduces the recovery under Chapter 33.
What should you do after a left-turn crash?
Get medical care, photograph the intersection and signals, collect witness contacts, and request nearby video quickly.
Signal timing and video often decide these cases. Ask businesses at the corner to save footage, and note which signal phase was showing if you can.
How it is proven after a crash
- Intersection and business video
- Signal timing records
- Event data recorder speed data
- Damage pattern showing the angle of impact
- Witnesses who saw the signal
Mistakes that cost people money
- Accepting the claim that you were speeding without evidence
- Not requesting video before it is overwritten
- Delaying medical care
- Giving a recorded statement before the facts are reviewed
Frequently asked questions
Does the left-turn rule apply to driveways?
Yes. Section 545.152 covers turns into alleys, private roads, and driveways as well as intersections.
What if the light turned yellow while I was turning?
The turning driver must still yield to vehicles close enough to be an immediate hazard. Signal timing and video help show who entered when.
Can the oncoming driver share fault?
Yes, if they were speeding, ran a red light, or were distracted. Fault is divided under Chapter 33.
I was turning left and got hit. Can I recover?
Possibly, if the oncoming driver was also at fault and your share is not greater than 50 percent.
How long do I have to file?
Generally two years from the crash under section 16.003.
This page is general information about Texas law and is not legal or medical advice. Every case depends on its own facts. Contact the firm for a free review of yours.
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