- October 6, 2023
“Michigan Lefts,” or turnarounds, are a common type of turn in Michigan. A Michigan Left replaces a left-hand turn and involves a vehicle making a U-turn at a median crossover instead of approaching an intersection and making a left turn when traffic clears or a traffic signal gives the go-ahead.Only some states have adopted turnarounds; however, these left-hand turns have been a part of Michigan since the late 1960s. This blog sheds light on the law regulating Michigan left-hand turns and how to stay safe when making one.
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident while making a turnaround, contact us immediately at Goodman Acker, P.C., to learn about your rights and obligations. Call us at 248-286-8100.
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At Goodman Acker, P.C., our attorneys understand a car accident's devastating effects on one’s life, so we do all we can to help our clients understand their rights under the law and secure a favorable outcome. No matter how the accident happened, you can benefit from our years of experience and in-depth knowledge of Michigan traffic and insurance laws. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to learn how we can help you.
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Why did Michigan adopt the turnaround?
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) states, “Research has shown that Michigan Lefts increase safety at an intersection by reducing the number and severity of crashes, often by 30-60 percent. They also relieve congestion, improve traffic flow, and provide easier business access. With fewer crashes, congestion, and increased capacity, roads with Michigan Lefts function better for all road users.”
Despite how safe MDOT portrays Michigan Lefts to be, car accidents are bound to happen, especially in winter. During winter, there is a 20% increase in fixed-object crashes at crossovers due mainly to a car sliding into a curb. However, learning how to drive a Michigan Left goes a long way to improve safety and reduce the chances of an accident.
Are Michigan Lefts dangerous?
Accidents are bound to happen when multiple vehicles are on the road, and nearly 30% of all crashes in Michigan happen at intersections. Out of that number, 40% are head-on collisions involving drivers making a left-hand turn. But with the turnaround law, crashes like this happen less, especially when drivers know how Michigan Lefts work.
At Goodman Acker, P.C., we once handled a car accident case involving a Michigan Left turn on an eastbound 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills. Our client was driving along 12 Mile when another vehicle attempted to enter 12 Mile from the turnaround and struck our client’s vehicle. The collision caused our client to strike another vehicle on 12 Mile Road. Farmington Hills police department investigated the accident scene. The driver attempting to make the Michigan Left was found negligent. Our client was transported to Botsford Hospital via EMS at the scene, with rib fractures and nasal fractures.
Our Michigan car accident lawyers sought damages from the at-fault driver for non-economic damages, including pain and suffering.
Understanding how to avoid a turnaround accident
One of the significant causes of turnaround accidents is that drivers do not understand the laws for making such turns. Here are a few essential rules that all Michigan drivers should know before entering a turnaround:
- Is there a traffic light present?: Many turnarounds are one lane, not a two-car lane. Pay attention to the traffic lights – Michigan's left-hand turn is two lanes ONLY if a traffic light is present. If there is no traffic light, it is a one-lane turn.
- Has traffic cleared?: Ensure that you make a Michigan Left on a red light ONLY after traffic has cleared.
- Do you have a green traffic light?: You can drive straight through a turnaround with a traffic light into an entrance across the street. However, you must wait for the light to turn green, even if traffic is clear.
Knowing these rules can help prevent left-hand turn accidents. Unfortunately, collisions do happen, and injuries may result, so contact our law firm immediately to learn your options if you find yourself in one.
Goodman Acker, P.C. is here for you!
If you or a loved one was injured, call our Goodman Acker P.C., Detroit car accident attorneys, to discuss your case and learn your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, and we can help. We also represent our clients under a trusted no-win, no-fee promise, which means you have no legal fees or costs until we win your case. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to schedule a free consultation.