Left-Turn Accidents in Tennessee

Legal Help for Victims

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we proudly represent victims of left-turn accidents across Nashville, Davidson County, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, and surrounding communities. With decades of legal experience and a reputation for meticulous advocacy, our team—led by attorney John Day—helps individuals and families pursue justice and compensation after serious motor vehicle collisions. Left-turn accidents often cause catastrophic injuries and present complex questions of liability. Our firm has the knowledge, resources, and dedication necessary to help victims recover both financially and emotionally.

What Is a Left-Turn Accident?

A left-turn accident typically occurs when a driver turning left at an intersection, into a driveway, or across lanes of traffic collides with another vehicle, often one traveling straight through the intersection. These collisions can result in head-on or T-bone impacts, which are especially dangerous at high speeds or when the impacted vehicle is a motorcycle or smaller car. Common injuries sustained in left-turn crashes include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple bone fractures, internal bleeding, and, in the most tragic cases, wrongful death. The angular nature of these collisions often leads to significant damage to both vehicles and severe physical harm to those involved.

Common Causes of Left-Turn Collisions

Left-turn crashes happen for a variety of reasons, and understanding the root cause is key to determining liability. In most cases, the driver making the left turn is required to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-129 codifies this requirement and holds turning drivers accountable if they fail to yield to vehicles that present an immediate hazard. Many of these accidents result from poor judgment regarding the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles. Distracted driving—whether due to cell phone use or in-vehicle distractions—can impair a driver’s ability to assess the situation in time. Impaired drivers, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, are more likely to misjudge traffic patterns or react slowly. Adverse weather conditions, such as fog or rain, and obstructed views caused by parked cars or overgrown vegetation can also hinder visibility and decision-making at intersections. Regardless of the cause, when a driver’s negligence results in injury, the law allows victims to pursue compensation.

Who Is at Fault in a Left-Turn Accident?

In most circumstances, the driver making the left turn is considered primarily at fault unless they did so under a protected traffic light (the signal for them showed a left-hand turn arrow).

Investigating a Left-Turn Crash

Thorough investigation is essential in building a strong personal injury case. Our legal team conducts a detailed analysis of the crash scene, reviewing physical evidence such as skid marks, debris, and road layout. We obtain police reports, which often include witness statements and initial fault assessments. Many modern vehicles are equipped with event data recorders—or “black boxes”—which can reveal critical information about speed, braking, and steering moments before the crash. Where available, traffic camera footage can provide objective visual documentation of the incident. We also interview witnesses and, when necessary, retain accident reconstruction experts to create a scientific narrative of how the crash occurred. These steps allow us to construct a clear, evidence-backed case demonstrating liability and the full extent of our client’s damages.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Victims of left-turn accidents may be eligible for a wide range of damages. Economic damages typically include medical expenses such as emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and future treatment. Lost income may also be recovered, both for time missed at work and any reduction in future earning capacity. Non-economic damages include compensation for physical pain, emotional suffering, and the loss of enjoyment of life. Property damage, including vehicle repairs or replacement, is also compensable. When an accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim under T.C.A. § 20-5-106, which may include compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, , and lost financial support.

Insurance Company Tactics

Even in seemingly clear-cut cases, insurance companies may attempt to limit their liability. In left-turn accident claims, insurers often argue that the injured party was speeding, failed to obey a traffic signal, or contributed to the crash in some other way. They may also attempt to discredit or minimize your injuries, claim that medical treatment was excessive, or offer a quick, low-value settlement before the full scope of your losses is clear. Our attorneys are well-versed in these tactics and counter them by presenting compelling evidence and leveraging expert testimony. We prepare every case for the possibility of trial, which often strengthens our position during negotiations.

Comparative Fault: What It Means for Your Case

Tennessee’s modified comparative fault rule plays a major role in how damages are awarded. If you are found to be partially responsible for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by your share of the fault. For example, if you are found 10% at fault, your damages will be reduced by 10%. However, if you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages at all. That’s why having strong legal representation is essential. At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we conduct thorough liability assessments and aggressively pursue your claim to minimize any attempt to place blame on you.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally one year from the date of the accident, pursuant to T.C.A. § 28-3-104. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is typically one year from the date of the incident which caused the injuries which resulted in death. These time limits are strict, and missing them can result in the loss of your legal rights. Prompt action not only ensures compliance with legal deadlines but also helps preserve evidence and strengthen your case.

How The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. Can Help

The aftermath of a left-turn accident can be overwhelming. Our firm is here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and care. From the moment you contact us, we provide a personalized case assessment to understand the full impact of your injuries. Every case is guided by a strategic legal plan based on decades of experience. We fight aggressively on your behalf—both in negotiations and, if necessary, in court—to secure the compensation you deserve. We also believe in transparent, ongoing communication, so you always know where your case stands and what comes next.

With offices located in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, we are accessible to clients throughout Middle Tennessee. Whether your accident occurred in an urban intersection, a rural highway, or a suburban street, we are ready to meet with you in person or virtually to discuss your legal options.

Call Today for a Free, Confidential Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a left-turn accident in Tennessee, you do not have to face the legal process alone. The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. is ready to help you seek justice and full compensation. We serve clients across Nashville, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, and beyond. Contact us today at (615) 742-4880 or through our website to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we recover money for you.