Flashing Yellow Left Turn Signals in California: Liability and Fault Explained

By Eugene Bruno on January 24, 2026

A growing number of left-turn crashes in San Diego may hinge on one misunderstood traffic signal: the flashing yellow arrow. As these signals appear at more intersections across the county, drivers who assume they have the right of way are finding themselves at fault after serious collisions. Understanding this signal is critical not just for safety, but for legal liability.

The San Diego car accident lawyers at Eugene Bruno & Associates have put together this guide to help you avoid accidents by responding correctly to a flashing yellow left turn signal.

What Is a Flashing Yellow Arrow?

A flashing yellow arrow allows a driver to make a left turn, but only after yielding to oncoming traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians. Unlike a solid green arrow, a flashing yellow arrow does NOT give the turning vehicle the right of way. The turning driver must yield to incoming traffic and cannot turn until it is safe to do so.

Why Use a Flashing Yellow Turn Signal?

San Diego has expanded the use of flashing yellow turn signals to improve traffic flow and reduce left-turn crashes. Traffic safety studies show drivers better understand their duty to yield when a flashing yellow arrow is displayed, as compared to a green circular signal.

Liability in Flashing Yellow Left Turn Accidents

In California, a driver making a left turn on a flashing yellow arrow typically will be presumed at fault if a collision occurs. That’s because, under California Vehicle Code §21801, a left-turning driver must yield the right of way to approaching traffic (vehicles, but also cyclists and pedestrians) close enough to constitute a hazard.

Common Accident Scenarios

Crashes commonly occur when a left-turning driver:

• Misinterprets the flashing yellow arrow as a protected turn and fails to yield right of way to oncoming traffic
• Fails to notice an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian
• Turns aggressively to try to “beat” traffic

Speak With a Trusted San Diego Car Accident Lawyer Today

As San Diego expands the use of flashing yellow turn signals, drivers who misunderstand them can face real consequences. In left-turn collisions, these signals frequently become a key factor in determining who is legally responsible.

If you’ve been injured in a left-turn collision involving a flashing yellow signal and have questions about who may be at fault, we’re here to help. Feel free to contact the attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates to discuss your situation.

Call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule a free consultation today.