Pearland Right Turn Accident Lawyer

Every day, there are right-turn accidents at Pearland’s busiest intersections, from the complicated interchange at Broadway Street and FM 518 to the crowded frontage roads along SH 288. Drivers who don’t yield while turning, cut across lanes of traffic, bike paths, or crosswalks where others have the right-of-way are often involved in these crashes. 

What seems like a simple turning movement can result in T-bone collisions, cyclist injuries, and pedestrian accidents that leave victims facing serious injuries and mounting medical bills.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we understand the specific challenges these cases present in Pearland. Texas law requires turning drivers to yield to through traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, but insurance companies often try to shift blame onto victims or downplay the severity of injuries. 

Our team has extensive experience investigating right-turn accidents at various locations throughout Pearland, including the Beltway 8 access roads and the shopping centers along Pearland Parkway. We know how to prove liability when a driver violates Texas Transportation Code requirements for safe turning.

With years of experience serving the Pearland community, we provide the aggressive representation you need to secure the full compensation you deserve. 

Whether your accident involved a driver running a red light while turning, failing to check blind spots, or making an illegal turn from the wrong lane, we have the local knowledge and legal expertise to build a compelling case for maximum recovery.

Why Choose DeHoyos as Your Pearland Right Turn Accident Lawyer?

With over a decade of experience and more than $20 million recovered for clients, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys provides proven legal representation for right turn accident victims. When you work with us, you get direct access to attorney Ryan DeHoyos, not just a paralegal handling your case.

We know Pearland’s dangerous intersections where right turn accidents frequently occur, including Broadway Street at FM 518 and the SH 288 frontage roads. Our local knowledge helps us build stronger cases by understanding traffic patterns and intersection designs that contribute to these crashes.

Call (832) 743-2104 for a free consultation with a Pearland car accident attorney who will fight for your recovery.

What Is a Right Turn Accident?

A right turn accident happens when a driver making a right turn collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist who has the right-of-way. This means the turning driver failed to properly yield to traffic that was legally allowed to proceed first.

These crashes commonly involve vehicles going straight through an intersection, people crossing in crosswalks, or cyclists in bike lanes. The turning driver is usually at fault because Texas law requires them to wait until the path is apparent.

How Do Right Turn Accidents Happen in Pearland?

Right-turn collisions occur due to several dangerous driving behaviors that violate Texas traffic laws.

Rolling Stops and Right on Red Conflicts

A rolling stop means slowing down without coming to a complete stop before turning right at a red light. Texas law requires drivers to stop completely behind the white line before checking for traffic and proceeding.

Many drivers rush through this process and turn directly into the path of vehicles that have a green light. This creates dangerous conflicts at busy Pearland intersections where through traffic expects the right-of-way.

Turning From the Wrong Lane or Into the Outside Lane

Drivers must turn right from the rightmost lane and enter the rightmost lane of their destination road. On multi-lane roads like Pearland Parkway, some drivers illegally turn from center lanes or swing wide into outer lanes.

This improper turning technique causes side-impact crashes with vehicles already traveling in those lanes. The turning driver violates traffic laws by not maintaining their proper lane position throughout the turn.

Right Hook Collisions With Cyclists in Bike Lanes

A right hook collision occurs when a driver turns right directly across a cyclist’s path in a bike lane. This happens when drivers fail to check their mirrors and blind spots before making a turn.

Areas around Shadow Creek Ranch have dedicated bike lanes where these bicycle accidents frequently occur. Cyclists traveling straight in their designated lane have the right of way over turning vehicles.

Pedestrians in Crosswalks and Slip Lanes

Drivers often fail to see pedestrians in crosswalks, especially at intersections with slip lanes designed for continuous right turns. Pedestrians with a walk signal or crossing in marked crosswalks always have the right-of-way.

Slip lanes can be particularly hazardous because they allow drivers to turn without stopping, making it more difficult for pedestrians to spot them when crossing the street.

Is Turning Right on Red Legal in Texas?

Yes, you can turn right on red in Texas, but only after completing specific steps required by law. You must come to a full stop, yield to all traffic and pedestrians, and then proceed.

This rule does not apply when you see a “No Turn on Red” sign or a red arrow signal specifically for right turns. Here’s what you must do to turn right on red legally:

Complete Stop: 

Stop entirely behind the white line or before entering the crosswalk

Yield to All Traffic: 

Wait for vehicles with green lights and pedestrians to clear your path

Check Both Directions: 

Look left, right, and left again before turning

Turn Into Nearest Lane: 

Enter the rightmost lane of the road you’re turning onto

Who Is at Fault in a Right Turn Accident in Texas?

The driver making the right turn is usually at fault because they have a legal duty to yield to all other traffic. Texas law places the burden on drivers to ensure the path is clear before proceeding.

However, Texas employs a comparative fault system, where blame can be shared among multiple parties.

Drivers Turning Right Must Yield

Texas Transportation Code requires turning drivers to yield the right-of-way to all approaching traffic. This duty applies whether you’re turning on a green light, green arrow, or red light after stopping.

The law is designed to protect through traffic, which has the primary right-of-way at intersections. Turning movements are considered secondary and must wait for the primary flow of traffic.

Through Traffic, Pedestrians, and Cyclists

Vehicles traveling straight through intersections have the right-of-way over turning traffic. Pedestrians in crosswalks and cyclists in designated bike lanes also have priority over turning vehicles.

This hierarchy exists because straight-moving traffic is more predictable and visible than turning movements. Areas like Cullen Boulevard with protected bike lanes give cyclists additional legal protection.

Shared Fault and Lane Encroachment

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule where you can recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault. For example, if you were speeding through an intersection and hit by a turning driver, you might share some blame.

Your percentage of fault would reduce your compensation, but you could still recover damages. A skilled attorney can help minimize your assigned fault percentage through a thorough investigation.

What Evidence Proves a Right Turn Driver Failed to Yield?

Substantial evidence is crucial for proving fault in right-turn accidents, and this proof must be preserved quickly before it disappears.

Intersection Cameras and Nearby Business Video

Traffic cameras at major Pearland intersections often capture right turn accidents. Many businesses near intersections have security cameras that record the street and can provide an exact record of what happened.

You should request this footage promptly to help ensure it is preserved. We can send legal preservation notices to ensure this evidence is saved for your case.

Signal Phase and Timing Data From the City

Official traffic signal timing records show exactly when lights were red, yellow, or green for each direction. This data definitively proves who had the right-of-way at the moment of impact.

We can subpoena this information from the City of Pearland or the Texas Department of Transportation. Signal timing data is particularly valuable when drivers claim they had a green light.

Vehicle Data, Dashcams, and Telemetry

Modern vehicles are equipped with event data recorders that capture speed, braking, and steering inputs in the event of a crash. This “black box” data can show whether a driver was speeding or failed to brake before turning.

Dashcam footage from any vehicle involved provides objective evidence of the accident. We also check for footage from ride-share drivers or delivery vehicles that might have been nearby.

Skid Marks, Lane Positioning, and Impact Angles

Physical evidence at the crash scene tells the story of what happened. The location of vehicle debris, the length and direction of skid marks, and damage patterns all provide clues about fault.

Accident reconstruction experts can analyze this evidence to determine vehicle speeds, points of impact, and the actions of the driver. We document this evidence immediately before it’s cleaned up or weather conditions destroy it.

Witness Statements and 911 Audio

Independent witnesses provide objective accounts of the accident from individuals with no vested interest in the outcome. Their immediate observations are often more reliable than statements made by drivers later.

The 911 call recordings capture real-time statements and admissions that can be robust evidence. We work quickly to identify and interview witnesses before their memories fade.

What If You’re Being Blamed for a Right Turn Crash?

Insurance companies routinely try to blame accident victims to avoid paying claims. They might argue you were speeding, distracted, or failed to prevent the accident.

Even if they assign you partial blame, you can still recover compensation under Texas law as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. A Pearland personal injury attorney can challenge unfair fault assignments and protect your rights.

Insurance adjusters use various tactics to shift blame, including requesting recorded statements designed to trap you into admissions. We handle all communications with insurers to prevent these tactics from harming your case.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Right Turn Collision?

Texas law allows accident victims to seek compensation for all losses caused by someone else’s negligence. Your damages fall into three main categories.

Economic Damages

These are your actual financial losses that can be calculated with bills and receipts:

Medical Expenses: 

Emergency room visits, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and future medical care

Lost Income: 

Wages are missed from work and reduced future earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job

Property Damage: 

Vehicle repairs or replacement, and damaged personal items

Out-of-Pocket Costs: 

Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and assistive devices

Non-Economic Damages

These damages compensate you for the personal impact of your injuries that can’t be measured in dollars. Pain and suffering cover your physical discomfort and emotional distress from the accident and ongoing injuries.

Loss of enjoyment of life compensates you for activities you can no longer participate in or don’t enjoy as much due to your injuries. Disfigurement damages address permanent scarring or physical changes that affect your appearance.

Punitive Damages in Extreme Cases

Courts may award punitive damages when a driver’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional. These damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar dangerous behavior in the future.

Examples include drunk driving accidents, road rage incidents, or cases where a driver intentionally caused harm. Punitive damages are rare and are typically awarded only in the most egregious cases.

What Should You Do After a Right Turn Crash in Pearland?

Your actions immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover fair compensation for your injuries.

Call 911 and Document the Scene

Always report the accident to the police to create an official record, even if injuries seem minor. Obtain the police report number and request the responding officer’s business card.

Take photographs of the accident scene from multiple angles, including all vehicle damage, the intersection layout, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These photos preserve evidence that might be cleaned up or repaired quickly.

Identify Cameras and Preserve Video Evidence

Look around for traffic cameras, business security cameras, or any other recording devices that might have captured the accident. Approach nearby business managers and politely ask them to save any relevant footage they may have.

Most surveillance systems automatically delete recordings within days or weeks, so time is critical. We can send formal preservation letters to ensure this evidence is protected for your case.

Seek Medical Care Immediately

Seek medical attention after a crash, even if you feel fine at first.

Early medical documentation creates a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Insurance companies often question injuries that aren’t documented immediately after a crash.

Avoid Recorded Statements

The other driver’s insurance company will likely contact you requesting a recorded statement about the accident. You have no legal obligation to provide this statement, and it can often hurt your case.

Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions designed to minimize their company’s liability. Let us handle all communications with insurance companies to protect your interests.

Where Do Right Turn Crashes Happen in Pearland?

Certain intersections in Pearland see frequent right-turn accidents due to heavy traffic, poor visibility, or confusing road designs.

Broadway Street and FM 518 at SH 288 Frontage Roads

This complex intersection has multiple turning lanes and heavy traffic from both local and highway sources, creating conditions that often lead to highway accidents. The frontage road system creates confusion about right-of-way rules.

Drivers often misjudge gaps in traffic or fail to yield to vehicles exiting the highway. The high speeds and multiple lanes make these crashes particularly dangerous.

Pearland Parkway at McHard Road and Beltway 8 Access

High-speed traffic from Beltway 8 meets local residential and commercial traffic at these intersections. Poor visibility during rush hour contributes to right-turn accidents.

The mix of commuters familiar with the area and visitors unfamiliar with traffic patterns creates unpredictable driving behaviors. Speed differences between highway and local traffic increase the severity of crashes.

Cullen Boulevard Near Schools and Shopping Centers

School zones and shopping areas create complex traffic patterns with pedestrians, cyclists, and turning vehicles. Parents dropping off children and shoppers create additional distractions for drivers, often leading to rear-end accidents when vehicles stop suddenly.

The presence of bike lanes along Cullen Boulevard adds another element that turning drivers must be aware of. Right-hook accidents involving cyclists are prevalent in these areas.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Pearland Right Turn Accident Lawyer?

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys handles all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no money up front. We only collect attorney fees if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

Our fee is a percentage of your final settlement or court award; we will explain the exact fee arrangement during your free consultation. You never pay anything out of your own pocket for legal representation.

This arrangement allows everyone to access quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation. It also ensures that we’re motivated to secure the maximum possible compensation for you, as our fee is contingent upon your success.

How Much Time Do You Have to File a Lawsuit in Texas?

Under Texas law, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, and missing it typically means you will lose your right to compensation forever.

However, waiting too long can harm your case even if you file within the deadline. Evidence disappears, witnesses move away or forget details, and insurance companies become less willing to negotiate fairly.

There are some exceptions to the two-year rule, such as cases involving minors or government entities, which may have different deadlines. We can explain how these rules apply to your specific situation.

Contact a Pearland Right Turn Accident Lawyer Today

Right-turn accidents can cause serious injuries and financial hardship, often through no fault of your own. You shouldn’t have to fight insurance companies alone while trying to recover from your injuries.

We offer complimentary consultations to assess your case and discuss your legal options. If you can’t travel due to your injuries, we can meet you at your home or hospital.

Don’t let an insurance company blame you for an accident caused by their driver’s failure to yield. Call DeHoyos Accident Attorneys or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Driver Turn Right on Red if a Pedestrian Is Crossing the Street?

No, drivers must wait until pedestrians completely clear their path before turning right on red. Pedestrians in crosswalks always have the right-of-way over turning vehicles, regardless of signal timing.

Who Is at Fault When a Car Hits a Cyclist in a Right Hook Accident?

The turning driver is typically at fault because Texas law requires drivers to ensure bike lanes are clear before crossing them. Cyclists traveling straight in designated bike lanes have the right of way over turning vehicles.

Can I Still File a Claim if Police Didn’t Issue a Traffic Ticket?

Yes, you can absolutely pursue compensation even without a traffic citation. Civil liability for accidents is determined separately from criminal traffic violations, and many valid injury claims involve accidents where no tickets were issued.

How Can We Obtain Traffic Camera Footage From My Accident?

Our firm can send legal preservation notices to the City of Pearland, TxDOT, or private businesses to save surveillance footage. However, you must act quickly because most systems automatically delete recordings within 30 days.

What Happens if My Child Was Injured in a Right Turn Accident?

Texas extends the statute of limitations for injured minors until their 20th birthday. However, parents should immediately seek legal help to preserve evidence and pursue compensation for medical expenses and other damages.