Overview
- In the case, a motorist signaled left and slowed almost to a stop, then swerved right and struck a vehicle that was passing.
- The appellate panel held that the signaling conduct established a reliance-inducing appearance of a left turn under the Rechtsschein doctrine.
- Judges placed 60% liability on the signaling driver for failing to ensure no one would be endangered before changing direction.
- The overtaking driver was assigned 40% fault for not maintaining the required safety distance while passing.
- Reports highlighted that improper or misleading use of turn signals can trigger significant civil liability and financial exposure for drivers.