As you approach a busy intersection, the light turns yellow. Suddenly, a driver runs the red light from the cross street, slamming into the side of your vehicle. Now you're left with a damaged car, painful injuries, and mounting medical bills.
Intersection accidents are among the most common and complicated crashes on Virginia roads. Determining who is at fault often involves untangling a web of conflicting statements, traffic laws, and evidence. The experienced Virginia accident attorneys at Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas understand the intricacies of intersection crash claims. We're here to help injured victims like you seek fair compensation for their harm.
Learn more about what causes intersection crashes, strategies for accident prevention, and how to determine liability when a collision happens.
Common Causes of Virginia Intersection Crashes
Multiple factors contribute to the high number of intersection accidents across Virginia. Some of the leading causes include:
- Distracted driving. In the seconds it takes to glance at a text message or adjust the radio, a driver can miss crucial traffic signals or fail to spot crossing vehicles. Distracted driving plays a significant role in many intersection crashes.
- Impaired driving. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and the ability to follow traffic laws. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to run red lights, stop signs, or fail to yield the right of way.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to stop in time to avoid a collision. Speeding drivers are also more likely to lose control of their vehicles, especially when making turns at intersections.
- Aggressive driving. Impatient or aggressive drivers may try to "beat the light," weave through traffic, or fail to yield when required. These risky behaviors significantly increase the likelihood of an intersection crash.
- Poor visibility. Inclement weather, obstructed sightlines, and inadequate lighting can make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or traffic controls at intersections.
Intersection Accident Prevention Strategies
While not all intersection crashes are avoidable, practicing defensive driving techniques can help reduce your risk of a collision:
- Approach with caution. When nearing an intersection, scan the cross street for oncoming vehicles. Don't assume other drivers will yield because you have the right of way.
- Watch for turning vehicles. Be especially cautious when drivers make left turns in your path. Allow them to clear the intersection completely before proceeding.
- Obey traffic signals. Always stop at red lights and stop signs. When the light turns green, look both ways before entering the intersection to make sure the cross traffic has stopped.
- Maintain a safe following distance. Don't follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of you. Rear-end collisions are common at intersections when drivers stop suddenly.
- Be visible. Use your headlights, even during the day, to make your vehicle more noticeable to other drivers. Avoid lingering in other vehicles' blind spots. Be sure to use your blinkers when turning or changing lanes.
Determining Liability in Virginia Intersection Accidents
Virginia follows the traditional "tort" system for auto insurance, meaning the at-fault party is responsible for damages. However, the state also applies the harsh contributory negligence standard. Under this rule, if an injured victim is even one percent at fault for the accident, they are barred from recovering any compensation.
Proving liability in intersection accidents often involves analyzing the following:
- Traffic laws. Which driver had the right of way under Virginia's traffic statutes? Did either driver violate laws related to speed, traffic signals, or turning requirements?
- Physical evidence. Skid marks, vehicle damage, debris patterns, and road conditions can provide valuable clues about how the accident occurred.
- Camera footage. Many intersections have red light cameras or nearby security cameras that may have captured the crash. Nearby homes and businesses may have helpful surveillance images.
- Eyewitness statements. Passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who saw the collision can provide crucial testimony to support your claim.
How a Virginia Accident Attorney Can Help
Intersection accident claims are highly fact-specific, and insurance companies often try to shift blame to avoid payouts. An experienced Virginia car accident lawyer can investigate your case and handle communication with the insurance company to help protect your right to a fair recovery.
At Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas, we've secured substantial settlements for intersection accident victims in Warrenton and throughout Culpeper County. Let us use our legal knowledge and negotiation skills to help you.