Car Accidents at Intersections

Intersections are among the most dangerous places on the road, with a significant portion of car accidents occurring where roads cross. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), approximately 40% of all traffic accidents happen at intersections, making them a critical area of concern for drivers. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of intersection accidents, the importance of understanding right-of-way rules, and how fault is determined in these often-complex collisions.

Understanding Accidents at Intersections

Intersections are inherently more hazardous because they involve multiple vehicles, traffic signals, pedestrian crossings, and various directions of travel. The complexity of traffic flow, combined with driver errors and distractions, increases the likelihood of collisions. Here are some common scenarios that lead to intersection accidents:

1. Failure to Obey Traffic Signals:

Running red lights and stop signs is one of the leading causes of intersection accidents. Drivers who speed through intersections to beat a light or who fail to stop completely at stop signs are at high risk of causing collisions, especially with vehicles crossing from other directions.

• Statistics: According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), red light running accounts for approximately 22% of fatal intersection accidents.

2. Left-Turn Collisions:

Making left turns at intersections can be dangerous, particularly if a driver misjudges the speed or distance of oncoming traffic. Left-turn accidents are common when drivers fail to yield to oncoming vehicles or attempt to “beat the light” as it changes.

3. T-Bone Collisions:

T-bone (or side-impact) collisions often occur when one driver runs a red light or stop sign and strikes another vehicle crossing the intersection. These accidents are particularly dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear, leading to severe injuries.

4. Distracted Driving:

Drivers distracted by their phones, passengers, or other activities are more likely to miss traffic signals, stop signs, or the presence of other vehicles. Distractions reduce reaction time, leading to poor decisions at intersections.

5. Confusion and Hesitation:

Intersections can be confusing, especially in complex layouts with multiple lanes, turn signals, and signs. Drivers who hesitate, stop unexpectedly, or become uncertain about right-of-way can cause rear-end collisions or disrupt the flow of traffic, leading to accidents.

6. Pedestrian and Cyclist Involvement:

Intersections are shared spaces with pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers who fail to yield or check for crossing pedestrians and cyclists can cause serious accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 50% of all pedestrian accidents occur at intersections.

Right-of-Way Rules and Intersection Accidents

Understanding and following right-of-way rules is crucial for preventing intersection accidents. Unfortunately, right-of-way violations are a leading cause of crashes, often because drivers misunderstand or ignore these rules. Here’s a breakdown of the key right-of-way principles at intersections:

1. Controlled Intersections (Traffic Signals and Stop Signs):

• Traffic Lights: At signalized intersections, the right-of-way is determined by traffic lights. Drivers must yield to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in accordance with the signal. Running a red light or failing to stop at a yellow light when safe to do so is a violation that can result in a serious accident.
• Stop Signs: At intersections with stop signs, all drivers must come to a complete stop. The driver who stops first generally has the right-of-way. If multiple drivers stop at the same time, the right-of-way is typically given to the driver on the right.

2. Uncontrolled Intersections:

At intersections without traffic signals or stop signs (common in residential areas), the right-of-way is given to the vehicle that arrives first. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the right has the right-of-way.

3. Left Turns:

Drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming traffic and ensure it is safe to turn. Failing to yield is a common cause of left-turn collisions, especially at busy intersections.

4. Pedestrians and Cyclists:

Pedestrians have the right-of-way at crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the street and to cyclists following the flow of traffic. In many states, failing to yield to pedestrians can result in hefty fines and penalties.

5. Roundabouts:

In roundabouts, vehicles entering the circle must yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Accidents often happen when drivers misunderstand this rule or fail to yield properly.

Common Right-of-Way Mistakes:

• Assuming Right-of-Way: Just because you believe you have the right-of-way doesn’t mean others will yield. Defensive driving and being prepared to stop, even if you technically have the right-of-way, can help avoid accidents.
• Failing to Signal: Using turn signals is essential for communicating your intentions to other drivers, especially at intersections. Failing to signal can lead to misunderstandings and collisions.

Determining Fault in Intersection Collisions

Determining fault in intersection accidents can be challenging, as multiple factors and conflicting accounts may come into play. However, understanding the process and the types of evidence that establish fault is key to a successful claim.

1. Traffic Laws and Violations:

Fault is often determined by which driver violated traffic laws. Common violations that lead to intersection accidents include:

• Running red lights or stop signs
• Failing to yield while turning left
• Entering an intersection without ensuring it is clear
• Speeding through an intersection

2. Police Reports:

After an accident, the responding officer will typically file a report that includes an assessment of fault. The report may contain:

• Statements from the drivers and witnesses
• Details of traffic signals and signs at the intersection
• Diagrams showing the position and direction of the vehicles involved
• Observations regarding road conditions, visibility, and other factors

While police reports are not legally binding, they are heavily relied upon by insurance companies and courts in determining fault. If you need a car accident lawyer to help with your case, call ClearLegal for a free consultation.

3. Eyewitness Accounts:

Witnesses can provide crucial information about which driver had the right-of-way and whether any traffic signals were ignored. Their unbiased perspective can help clarify conflicting stories.

4. Video Footage:

Traffic cameras, dash cams, and surveillance cameras from nearby businesses can provide valuable evidence. Video footage can show whether a driver ran a red light, failed to yield, or made an illegal turn.

5. Accident Reconstruction:

In more complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may be brought in to analyze factors such as vehicle speed, impact points, and skid marks. Their analysis can recreate the events leading to the crash and help determine which driver was at fault.

Comparative Negligence in Intersection Accidents:

In some cases, both drivers may share fault for an intersection collision. For example, if one driver ran a red light but the other driver was speeding, both may be partially liable. Under Colorado’s modified comparative negligence rule, a driver can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Common Challenges in Determining Fault:

• Conflicting Accounts: In many intersection accidents, each driver may claim that they had the right-of-way. Eyewitness testimony and video evidence are often needed to resolve these disputes.
• Complex Intersections: Multi-lane intersections with multiple traffic signals, turning lanes, and pedestrian crossings can create confusion, leading to disputes over who had the right-of-way.

Conclusion

Intersection accidents are notoriously complex, involving various factors that can complicate the determination of fault. Understanding right-of-way rules, recognizing common hazards like obstructed views or misjudging other vehicles’ speeds, and knowing how liability is assessed are crucial in protecting your rights if you’re involved in a collision. Navigating insurance claims, disputes over fault, or potential legal actions can be challenging, but having a clear grasp of how these accidents are evaluated is essential for securing fair compensation. Consulting with a car accident attorney can provide the legal expertise needed to handle these complexities and ensure that your rights are upheld throughout the process.