When you are on the road, it is normal to come across some dangers or risks. Some risks, such as the behavior of other drivers or road users and vehicle problems, are impossible to predict. Though all drivers expect that the roads they use are well designed and maintained by their local government, some road users present serious dangers, and one needs to exercise extra caution while using such roads.
Negligence is an essential player in several intersection collisions. Mostly, drivers tend to underestimate the time they need to cross the intersection on a green light. They can use excessive speed while trying to cross, and this can cause a collision.
Apart from a driver’s mistakes, defects on the road and lack of proper maintenance also contribute to many intersections. Some of the things that can cause an accident in a dangerous intersection include the following:
- Obscure signs
- Lack of traffic lights
- Insufficient signage
- Overgrown or ill-placed foliage
- Improper drainage
- Uneven or unmarked pavement
- Complex design
- Sharp curves
- Sun glare or visibility defects
- Improper lane width
- Drop-offs on the road
- Poorly maintained roads and potholes
These and more dangers are real threats on the road, and drivers should use extreme caution and adhere to the traffic laws while at intersections. It is also the local, state, and national government’s responsibility to ensure that the roads are well maintained and marked to improve safety.
Dangers in an Intersection Accident
Intersections often tend to present several dangers, and according to The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), they are a leading cause of road crashes. These accidents record a high rate of injuries and fatalities:
Side Impacts
The nature of intersections, such as the operational, small surface area, makes it very likely for crashes to occur. T-bones or side-impact collisions occur when one driver runs a red light or tries to make it through the intersection before the light turns red.
Because of the minimal protective structures that vehicles have on their sides, these accidents have high fatalities and severe injuries.
Rear-End Crashes
Rear-ends occur when a driver makes a sudden stop at the intersection or when another driver rams into a vehicle while at a stop sign. This accident can cause a lot of damages to the vehicle, and depending on the speed that the car was being driven, it can also cause injuries.
Side-Swipe Collisions
This accident happens when one or more vehicles are turning at the same time in the same direction. It is where the right side of one vehicle collides with the left side of the other vehicle. It mainly occurs when both cars moved out of their lanes when it was unsafe to proceed.
Determining Liability in an Intersection Accident
The type of crash will affect the decision on who is to be held liable. For example, if a driver failed to stop at a red light, used excess speed, drove under the influence, or did not adhere to the traffic rules, they will be liable regardless of their location at the intersection.
If the local or state government is responsible for failing to repair a road, install guardrails or traffic lights, install adequate warning signs, etc., the outcome can be shared liability.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
If you or your family has been in an intersection accident, do not waiver off your right of compensation before speaking to a car accident attorney. Whether a negligent driver or government caused the accident, you should obtain an attorney to help you seek fair compensation. Your attorney will gather evidence to prove fault and damages.
