An intersection accident is a motor vehicle collision that occurs at an intersection. This type of accident can happen when a driver takes a left turn and goes too far into the intersection or when a car tries to turn too quickly.
However, there are many different reasons why intersection accidents happen. In case you have been a victim of such accidents, an experienced intersection accident lawyer may prove to be helpful.
We invite you to Nationwide Disability Representatives to discuss your case with full ease by scheduling a free case consultation. In addition, we will utilize your resources and guide you toward a favorable outcome.
What are the leading causes of intersection accidents?
One of the leading causes of intersection accidents is running a red light. Violating traffic laws not only puts the driver’s and passengers’ lives at risk, it also endangers the life of the other people sharing the road.
Sometimes one driver incites another driver to attempt an illegal act, leading to confusion at the intersection. Furthermore, it also causes traffic jams.
If you or a loved one sustained serious injuries such as brain injuries, leg injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even wrongful death owing to careless driving, you can approach a Car Accident Attorney.
Some of the other causes of intersection auto accidents include:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Inadequate surveillance
- Not using protective gear such as helmets and seat belts
- Non-adherence to lane driving
- Following too closely
If we consider intersection accidents, aggressive and careless driving are often the primary causes. Some drivers may choose to speed up when the light is yellow. To avoid such accidents, drivers need to stop at a red light, abide by the traffic signals and follow all traffic laws.
Common types of intersection accidents
The outcome of intersection collisions can range from a minor fender bender to fatal accidents involving wrongful death. It is advisable for people who are approaching intersections to be extra careful to avoid the following crashes:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone crashes
- Failure to yield while turning
- Sideswipes
- Hitting cyclists or pedestrians
This list is not at all exhaustive—these are just some of the accidents that occur at intersections. Regardless, the force of a motor vehicle collision can lay an adverse impact on the driver, passengers, and vehicle.
What percentage of accidents happen at intersections?
Highway intersections converge multiple roads and traffic going opposing directions. Therefore, intersection car crashes are highly prevalent. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 40% of accidents in the United States happen at intersections.
Following all the Florida car seat laws such as using seat belts while the vehicle is in motion and driving with alertness can help reduce the incidence of these deadly collisions.
Who is at fault in an intersection accident?
When there is the presence of a stop sign, the vehicle arriving at the intersection has the right of way. When two drivers are approaching an intersection at a similar time, the driver who is making a left turn must yield to the drivers going straight.
When making a left turn, it is your responsibility to yield to the oncoming traffic. In determining the fault in these types of intersection crashes, though, it is vital to understand all factors involved in the incident.
This can be done by collecting evidence, getting a copy of the police report, interviewing the witnesses, and analyzing the cameras for any video footage. An accident victim can file an intersection accident lawsuit and seek compensation. Car insurance claims can also be beneficial for the accident victim to avoid financial burden.
Astonishing intersection statistics: Be aware of the dangers
According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 50% of crashes, including fatal injuries like brain injury, happen near intersections. Therefore, to avoid accidents at intersections, the Federal Highway Administration has been trying to implement short-term safety improvements along with long-term plans to enhance intersection safety.
Reports from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FHSMV) specify nearly 928 people got hurt in intersection crashes in Florida in 2020. The total number of people who sustain injuries due to incapacitating crashes is 5,718, and due to non-capacitating accidents, 24,655.
One of the most dangerous intersections in Florida is the intersection of Dixie Highway and Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. It is listed as one of the most deadly intersections in the state.
Some other deadly intersections are in Tampa, Fort Pierce, West Palm Beach, South Dixie Highway, Miami, Pensacola, and Pembroke Pines.
Need Legal Assistance? Contact Us
If your case is complex and you are unable to recover compensation, an intersection accident attorney can be beneficial for your case. If you’ve been involved in an intersection collision, you can schedule a free consultation with us as soon as possible.