Intersections are known for being some of the most dangerous places for accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, out of the millions of crashes that occur each year, approximately 40 percent of them were intersection-related. Approximately 96 percent of these accidents occurred due to driver error, which means many intersection accidents can be avoided as well.

If you believe that another party is liable for your accident that occurred at an intersection, you have many rights to compensation. Evidence that is obtained at the scene of the collision will show police and insurance companies that the other party was at fault, essentially proving your claim. You may find that you are eligible for any damages to help you through this difficult time.

Reasons Many Intersection Accidents Occur 

Florida is no stranger to intersection accidents, with hundreds happening every single week. Intersections are unique in the way that the accidents that occur typically happen due to right-of-way violations instead of aspects like tailgating, reckless driving, and many other common reasons for accidents that happen on highways and beyond. The biggest reason is a person’s inability to properly dictate whose turn it is to proceed through an intersection. However, there are many other reasons. These include the following:

Failing to Notice Turning Traffic: Many people do not adequately scan the area for harm before making a turn at an intersection. When a driver makes a turn while failing to notice oncoming traffic, it can lead to a serious collision, many of which include side-impacts. This is why it is important to check and check again.

False Assumptions: When a driver assumes that one person is going to go a certain way, this is a false assumption. It is important to pay close attention to which way a person is planning to turn so that these accidents can be avoided.

Obstructed Views: Obstructed view accidents occur when a driver turns without being able to see oncoming traffic. This could be due to the fact that a tree or another object is in the way and the driver pulled out quickly without properly seeing the road around them. 

Illegal Turning: Illegal turning includes aspects like turning left at a red light, turning left at an intersection where it is not permitted, using an inappropriate turning lane, or turning on red without coming to a complete stop firsthand. 

Distractions: Distracted driving accounts for many intersection accidents as well. Some of the behaviors that lead to a driver being distracted include texting, eating, putting on makeup, and more. 

Misjudgment of Speed: These accidents also occur when a driver misjudges the speed of an oncoming vehicle or the gap in space that they have to make a turn.

After Being Involved in an Intersection Accident 

Serious collisions happen every day in Florida, a large percentage of which take place at an intersection. Intersections are known for being particularly dangerous and leading to a wide array of damages in victims. Victims are urged to always speak with a Florida car accident attorney immediately following a collision that was not their fault. It is important that a victim acts quickly so that they can protect their rights during these difficult times. If you have been harmed, please contact our law firm at Sheftall & Associates. We are waiting to hear from you at 904-647-2296.