Who Is At Fault If I Get Hit When My Blinker Is On But I Don’t Turn?

People driving in an unfamiliar area often mistake the street they need. At other times, a driver running errands may plan to turn, but remember a forgotten item and change plans at the last minute––including after they have already activated their turn signal. For these and other reasons, many people wonder: What happens if my blinker is on but I don’t turn?

For answers to questions like this and for assistance with an injury claim, it can be helpful to speak to an Oregon car accident injury attorney at Schauermann Thayer. Our firm has more than four decades of experience helping car accident victims obtain compensation for the damages that they suffered. Our experienced team knows how to get results for car accident victims. Schedule your individual consultation today by calling (360) 695-4244.

Turn Signal Requirements in Oregon

There are several rules of the road that must be observed by drivers. These rules are meant to keep everyone safe. Car accidents can cause an incredible amount of destruction and death. Being a responsible driver that obeys the laws can help reduce the chances of a catastrophic car accident from happening.

One rule of the road is using turn signals to indicate a driver’s intentions to others. Drivers can use their turn signal lights, or they can use hand signals. In either case, the  states that turn signals are a must when making a lane change, driving into traffic, or turning.

Is It Illegal To Drive if a Car Does Not Have Working Turn Signals?

This explains vehicle requirements for lawful and proper signaling. Hand signals are only to be used during the day when there is clear visibility. If you can see another car easily at 1,000 feet during the day, then a hand signal may be lawfully used. If the weather makes it difficult for you to see other drivers, then other drivers cannot see you and therefore, hand signals should not be used. At night, a car’s turn signals must be used.

Additionally, a driver must be able to use the appropriate signals while driving. Failing to properly signal could result in law enforcement pulling a driver over and citing them for the violation, which can lead to a costly fine and potentially points on their license. However, a traffic ticket is not the most severe possible outcome of faulty turn signal deployment. Improper signaling, or not signaling at all, will also make the chances of a crash happening much higher.

Who Is Responsible for a Crash When a Car Uses a Turn Signal but Does Not Turn?

The answer to who owns liability when an automobile accident happens when a turn signal was used by a driver who did not actually turn depends on the details of how the accident happened. If a driver used their turn signal but did not turn as indicated and a crash occurred, then there may be enough evidence to suggest that the driver who failed to use their signals properly is completely responsible for the accident. On the other hand, when a driver who does not wait to see if a car with its turn signals on is actually making a turn quickly drives out in front of the signaling vehicle, then both drivers could have some amount of responsibility for the crash happening.

To be successful with a claim and obtain maximum compensation, it is essential to have ample evidence. An attorney at Schauermann Thayer may be able to provide legal counsel and support to help you determine whether you have a claim and what evidence you might need.

Speak With an Oregon Car Accident Attorney Today

Car accidents are not always cut-and-dry. They can be complicated to unravel, and properly allocating responsibility may be difficult. Oregon is a fault state, which means that the individual who caused a car accident is the one who pays, so Oregon car accident lawyers often receive the question “Who is at fault if I get hit when my blinker is on but I don’t turn?” The answer is that you could be held liable for part or all of the accident’s financial damages and insurance claims. Whether a driver who does not turn after activating their turn signal bears full responsibility for a crash or not will depend on the specific details of how the accident occurred. The legal team at Schauermann Thayer understands Oregon’s car accident laws and provides individualized and customized legal services to victims of car accidents. To learn more about how an Oregon personal injury attorney can help you after a crash, please call (360) 695-4244 to schedule your consultation.