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I Was In a Car Accident at an Intersection. Who’s at Fault?

I Was In a Car Accident at an Intersection. Who’s at Fault?

Intersections bring together traffic from opposing directions and are the most dangerous places for accidents to take place. In fact, according to statistics from the NHTSA, 40% of all car accidents in the U.S. occur at intersections. What’s more, these same statistics show that 50% of all fatal car accidents occur at intersections. 

There are many unique factors at play when determining fault after a crash at an intersection. Who had the legal right of way at the intersection will come into play, as well as other variables that may have contributed to the collision. 

In this blog, we discuss who is at fault after a Kentucky car accident at an intersection, as well as outline some of the most common injuries sustained from these crashes.

Common Injuries from Intersection Car Accidents

Since these accidents typically occur when both parties are traveling at high speeds through a stoplight, the injuries sustained can be catastrophic, especially when they involve head-on or T-bone collisions. Some common injuries include:

  • Lacerations and contusions, which can lead to excessive bleeding
  • Soft-tissue injuries (sprains, tears of ligaments, tendons, and muscles)
  • Broken bones
  • Damage to internal organs such as perforation or bruising
  • Internal bleeding
  • Neck and back injuries (whiplash, herniated or ruptured discs)
  • Spinal cord injuries/paralysis
  • Amputation
  • TBIs
  • Eye and ear injuries

Unfortunately, in more tragic cases, these car accidents can leave victims with permanent disabilities or even be fatal.

Common Causes of Intersection Car Accidents

Distractions are all-too-common while behind the wheel, and intersections are no exception. However, passing through an intersection requires a motorist’s full attention. When a driver fails to pay attention when approaching an intersection, they put themselves and all other drivers present at risk of injury. Some of the most common reasons that accidents at intersections take place include:

  • Speeding
  • Disregarding stoplights/other traffic control devices
  • Failure to yield to the right-of-way
  • Failure to signal a turn
  • Making an illegal turn
  • Sudden braking
  • Tailgating
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Distracted driving caused by a cellphone, GPS, food, personal grooming, or interacting with other car occupants
  • Inexperience
  • Poor vehicle maintenance

Determining Fault for a Car Accident at an Intersection

While investigating these accidents can sometimes be as simple as obtaining video security footage from a nearby establishment or eyewitness accounts, determining fault can prove to be much more difficult. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side fighting for you. Evidence that can be used to determine fault in these accidents includes:

  • Photos of the accident scene (skid marks on the road, positions of both vehicles after the impact, damage to the vehicles, weather conditions, traffic, and road conditions)
  • Vehicle damage reports, which may indicate the vehicle was not maintained or was improperly maintained
  • Statements from both drivers
  • Accident reconstruction reports

If an accident is caused by a vehicle’s brake failure, the brake manufacturer may carry some liability.

Contact a Kentucky Car Accident Lawyer Today

Dealing with the many variables in these types of car accidents can quickly become overwhelming. At McCoy & Sparks, our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience with car accident cases. Our experienced legal team understands Kentucky law and car accident injuries and has a track record of success maximizing the recovery of damages for our clients. Our job is to fight for you. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Contact McCoy & Sparks Attorneys at Law, your Central Kentucky personal injury lawyers at 1-844-4KY-WINS or fill out our online form to set up a free consultation. Our offices are located at 212 W. Stephen Foster Ave. in Bardstown, Kentucky.