Where there is multi-directional traffic and intersecting lanes, there are bound to be collisions. With so many moving parts at an intersection, it’s easy for drivers to get confused or distracted, or to simply make a mistake. And then of course there are the drivers that intentionally disobey signs and signals.
No matter how they occur, intersection crashes are some of the most common accidents that occur in the United States. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, over 50 percent of fatal and injury-causing crashes occur at intersections.
So whether you’re running late and are tempted to squeeze through the light or you’re simply distracted and not paying attention, taking a moment to think through your actions can make all the difference. When approaching an intersection, whether you think you have the right of way or not, it’s beneficial to take a second look at your surroundings to ensure both yourself and the other drivers around you are paying attention and obeying the signals.
How Intersection Accidents Occur
While drivers running red lights are typically the cause of most intersection accidents, there are other factors and reasons that can play a part. The following are some of the most common reasons that crashes occur at intersections:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while tired or drowsy
- Intentional or unintentional running of red lights
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Intentional or unintentional disobeying of other traffic signs or signals
- Making illegal turns
- Failing to use a turn signal
- Tailgating the car in front of you
- Slamming on your brakes
These are all factors that can lead to an accident in any situation, but they are especially known to cause impacts and collisions at intersections.
Common Intersection Crash Injuries
Accidents, no matter where they happen, can be serious and deadly, but intersection crashes specifically are known for involving major head-on collisions and t-bone impacts. When involved in these types of collisions it is common for victims to suffer a multitude of injuries:
- Deep lacerations
- Ligament or muscle tears and sprains
- Fractured or broken bones
- Neck and back injuries from whiplash
- Damaged internal organs
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Loss of limbs from amputation
- Head injuries and brain trauma
- Road rash and burns
Rules of the Road: Understanding Kentucky Traffic Light Laws
Who is at fault in an intersection accident? it can be helpful to understand the laws that are in place. While most individuals are aware of the laws, rules can vary from state to state. Some of these may seem obvious but knowing which ones apply and are in place in your particular state can help drivers avoid intersection accidents in the future.
Make a Complete Stop
In Kentucky, drivers must come to a complete stop at both solid and flashing red lights, as well as stop signs.
You Can Turn Right on Red
When you are intending to turn right, you may do so when the light is red so long as there is not a sign indicating otherwise. However, drivers must still come to a complete stop before turning. If there is any oncoming traffic or pedestrians, they have the right of way and you must yield. The same is true for stop signs. Even if the intersection seems clear, you must come to a complete stop before turning or proceeding into the intersection.
Left Turns On One-Way Streets Are Allowed
Drivers may turn left at red lights onto one-way roads, but only if they are turning off of another one-way road. You may not turn left at a red light if the road you are currently on has traffic coming from the other direction.
You May Drive Through On A Yellow Light
This is a lesser-known fact, but it is not legal in all states to drive through an intersection on a yellow light. Kentucky, however, does allow it. In the state of Kentucky, a yellow light serves as a warning that the light will soon be turning red, but that also does not mean it’s a good time to speed up to make it through. When approaching an intersection with a yellow light, it is typically best to slow down if you suspect you won’t have time to pass through the light before it turns.
Motorcycle Laws
In some situations, the state of Kentucky does allow motorcyclists to run red lights. This rule only applies if they first come to a complete stop and have waited for at least 120 seconds. Additionally, there must be no other traffic approaching the intersection. The exception is allowed owing to the fact that motorcycles often do not weigh enough to trigger the traffic light sensors.
Determining Fault After an Intersection Crash
Who is at fault in intersection accidents? Drivers are known for trying to dispute fault after intersection accidents, even those who are aware they are guilty. When this happens specialists may be brought in to investigate any available evidence to determine fault. Insurance companies as well may try to dispute fault in an effort to avoid paying the victim what they deserve. It may be necessary to hire an attorney in these situations if you were injured and are seeking compensation.
Evidence that may be brought forward to determine fault includes:
- Photos taken by witnesses or the drivers involved
- Video footage captured by security cameras nearby, phones, or from dash cams in cars
- Analysts may use photos and videos in conjunction with any skid marks at the scene or by considering what the weather conditions were like at the time of the accident
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction reports involving diagrams and digitally generated recreations of the accident and how it likely occurred
- Vehicle damage reports
While it may sometimes be obvious who is at fault in an intersection accident, there are situations where determining the guilty party is more challenging. When there are multiple cars involved in an accident, there can often be more than one person who is fully or partially at fault.
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