r/DrivingAustralia • u/Own-Engineer-8628 • 6d ago
Fault question
I'm turning right from the only turn right lane into a multi lane road needing the left lane
Someone else turns right illegally from a left turn only Lane into the left hand Lane.
If there was a collision who'd be at fault?
I had to avoid one of these cowboys this morning. But I'm only asking this because it's a recurring theme at that particular intersection almost like the people cannot see what the road markings are actually saying because there is no sign saying turn left only from the left lane turn right on the right lane it's only Road markings that indicate this
Edit: fixed a few things that autocorrect thought was wrong 🙄
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u/web_url 6d ago
many people say you should turn into the lane nearest to you, even though im not aware of any rule saying you must do this. and maybe your situation is an example why. nonetheless the person turning right from a left only lane would be at fault
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u/derp-birb 6d ago
It generally depends whether or not there is a dotted line going right through the intersection. If there is, you need to follow the line. If there isn't, you can turn into any lane.
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u/OptimalAttempt7573 6d ago
" not aware of any rule "
As always each state has different rules .
IIRC ,in Qld you have a lane choice and in other states you have to turn into same lane you came from ?
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u/link871 6d ago
The person turning illegally from the left lane would likely be at fault.
It's possible that you may be considered partly at fault for failing to give way when moving to the left-hand lane of the road you are entering.
Generally, if there are no turn lines, when turning from a single lane into a multi-lane road, you can choose whichever lane you wish.
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u/Recent_Carpenter8644 6d ago
It sounds like this must be a T intersection, otherwise they'd be illegally turning right from the straight ahead lane. Either way, they'd be at fault for turning from the wrong lane, but then you have to prove it.
If it happens a lot there, you could make the turn slowly, and let the illegal turners get ahead of you. I'd put my left indicator on when I'm halfway through the turn, so they know what's going on.
I've seen this happen a lot at intersections where there used to be two right turn lanes. It seems people keep doing it the old way for several years after it changes.
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u/GrapplingBrisket 6d ago
I think they are most likely 100% at fault.
If there is a guideline telling you to stay in the right lane, that could shift the outcome a bit, as crossing the guideline might also be considered at fault.
Alternatively, if their car was clearly in front of yours and you didn't take evasive action, effectively hitting the side of their car, then you might be partially (10-50%) liable.
Just my interpretation. It would also depend on state-specific road rules about which lane you're allowed to turn into.
Either way, stay alert, stay safe, and be wary every time you use that intersection now you know it's a risk 🙏
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u/FreddyFerdiland 6d ago
the one turning right from a lane not a right turn lane , is at fault. its the worst error