Ventura Intersection Car Accident Attorney

Vehicles at intersections travel in different directions, which means passing through one is inherently dangerous for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Intersection accidents can be severe and, in some unfortunate cases, can even lead to fatalities. Suppose you or your loved one got injured in a Ventura intersection car accident. In that case, you should consult with an intersection car accident lawyer in Ventura from the King Law Firm to file a personal injury claim and help you pursue litigation against the at-fault party.

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents 

Overspeeding 

Many car accidents, including intersection accidents, result from overspeeding or reckless driving. The higher the speed of a vehicle, the more significant the impact of the collision. Motorists that approach an intersection at high speed can often cause a T-bone collision. Exceeding the speed limit at intersections is a serious traffic violation in California, but many drivers disregard speed limits. 

Distracted Driving

It is against the law for motorists to use their cell phones behind the wheel because it can cause driver distraction. When the driver does not pay attention to the road, their ability to react quickly and avoid a collision is compromised. 

At intersections, a driver who is not paying attention could accidentally ignore a stop sign or traffic light and collide with an oncoming vehicle. Distracted driving accounts for thousands of injuries annually and is one leading cause of intersection accidents.   

Running a Red Light 

All drivers must slow down when the traffic lights turn yellow to stop their car at the red light safely. However, some drivers speed up as they reach the intersection to avoid being stuck at the red light. Running a red light at an intersection can wreak havoc on the road. With vehicles coming from all directions at the intersection, an impatient driver could cause a severe collision. 

Not Having a Clear View of the Road

Another leading cause of intersection accidents is a driver’s obstructed view when they make a turn. Many things can reduce road visibility for the driver, such as inclement weather conditions, other vehicles, and objects near the road, like trees. When a driver does not have a clear view of the intersection, they could miss a pedestrian crossing the street or an oncoming vehicle and end up in an accident. 

Typically, when a driver wants to make a turn at the intersection, they should have a clear view of the road ahead so they can yield to any oncoming vehicles and prevent a collision. 

Tailgating  

Some intersection accidents can be avoidable if a driver maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. Tailgating is usually the rear driver’s fault; however, it is the leading driver’s responsibility not to brake suddenly and unnecessarily. 

Failure to Yield

It is a common mistake for motorists to be unsure who has the right of way at an intersection. Passing through the intersection without ensuring that other vehicles give you the right of way can lead to an accident. To minimize the chances of a crash, all drivers should give oncoming vehicles the right of way when turning at the intersection.

Intersection Accident Statistics 

• Approximately 50% of fatalities and injuries resulting from car accidents occur at intersections in the U.S. 
• Around 40% of intersection accidents occur because motorists fail to notice a red traffic light or a stop sign. 
• A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report shows that 28% of traffic fatalities occur at intersections. 

Common Injuries in Intersection Accidents 

The following are the common injuries victims of intersection accidents sustain:

• Whiplash: Whiplash injuries can occur in serious intersection accidents. It happens when the head of the victim forcefully moves back and forth due to the violent jolt of the crash. 
• Knee Injuries: If the knees hit the dashboard during the collision, it could result in knee injuries. Knee injuries are more common for passengers in the front. 
• Bruises: In some intersection accidents, the victim can suffer bruising or a rash from the seat belt digging into their flesh. 
• Soft Tissue Damage: The muscles or ligaments can be damaged due to the excessive force of the accident, leading to soft tissue injuries. 
• Traumatic Brain Injury: A violent blow to the head during a crash can result in a traumatic brain injury.  
• Shoulder Injury: A heavy impact to the arm during the collision can cause a dislocated shoulder or injured ligaments. 
• Spinal Cord Damage: A spinal cord injury could result in loss of sensation or even paralysis. 
• Broken Bones: If a bone is subjected to excessive force during the accident, it could fracture or break. 

Determining Liability in Intersection Car Accidents 

Typically, liability in an intersection accident is more about who had the right of way at the time of the accident and less about which vehicle crashed into the other. Drivers who violate traffic laws and fail to yield when they have the legal duty to do so can be held liable for the intersection accident. 

Liability can be determined in intersection car accidents by analyzing the evidence and facts of the case. In addition, investigations can be needed to determine whose negligence led to the accident. These investigations can be carried out by insurance companies, local authorities, and even a Ventura intersection car accident lawyer. 

The police report of the accident is also an essential piece of evidence to determine the liability of the accident. It is also best to take photos or videos from the accident site as evidence. 

Contact a Ventura Intersection Car Accident Lawyer

You may be uncertain about what kind of compensation you deserve after being injured in an intersection accident due to another person’s negligence. 

You are welcome to contact our Ventura personal injury legal team at the King Law Firm to help determine and calculate your damages. In addition, our lawyer can also help you prove liability on the opposing party by hiring expert witnesses and gathering evidence.

Since Ventura intersection car accident attorneys are well-versed in legal issues from similar cases to yours, they can maximize your chances of a favorable verdict. In addition, your lawyer can deal with all the paperwork and negotiations for your settlement claim or lawsuit while you focus on your recovery.