Lawyer: Intersection Accidents

Intersection accidents are almost always preventable, yet people continue to suffer serious and sometimes fatal injuries in these crashes. From occupants of motor vehicles to cyclists and pedestrians, anyone can get hurt in an intersection collision. These accidents occur most often at traffic lights or stop signs—when one or more drivers are supposed to stop, yet a driver does not stop and a collision occurs.

As an experienced Cleveland accident lawyer, I routinely represent clients in accident cases that involve intersection crashes. It is important for you to understand the legal process for these types of accidents. The best way to do so is to get in touch with me as soon as possible. The quicker you contact me, the sooner I can start working on your accident claim and obtain the compensation you need. I am one of the most successful car accident attorneys in Cleveland because I know the insurance and legal systems. Insurance companies definitely do not want to hear my voice on the other end of the line!!

Why Do Intersection Accidents Happen?

Most intersection accidents occur because of human error. To put it another way, someone was negligent or behaved in a careless manner, and that person’s negligence caused a serious accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides facts and figures about intersection accidents, and I want to share some of those with you here:

• About 40% of accidents that happen in the U.S. are intersection-related crashes;

• Intersection accidents can happen when a driver turns left, crosses over or through an intersection, or turns right;

• Approximately 96% of intersection collisions occur due to driver error;

• Vehicle problems and environmental factors cause intersection accidents in fewer than 3% of the reported accidents;

• Inadequate surveillance is the most common cause for an intersection accident, meaning a driver failed to pay attention to what was happening at the intersection (and often to see another vehicle or pedestrian);

• False assumptions about another motorist’s speed or behavior is the second-leading cause of intersection accidents;

• Other common causes of intersection accidents include a driver turning with an obstructed view, a driver making an internal maneuver, and a driver being distracted inside his or her vehicle;

• Most intersection accidents caused by drivers under the age of 24 are linked to internal distractions;

• Most left-turn accidents that occur at intersections happen because a driver turned despite having an obstructed view.

Types of Accidents at Intersections

T-bone Car Accident

A T-bone car accident is a common type of accident that occurs at intersections. It typically involves one vehicle colliding perpendicularly with the side of another vehicle. This often happens when one driver fails to yield the right of way at a four-way stop, or a non-signalized intersection. Serious injuries can result from this type of collision, often times requiring medical assistance.

Rear-End Collision

A rear-end collision at an intersection occurs when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle waiting at a red traffic signal or a stop sign. This type of car accident is often caused by distracted driving, following too closely, or failing to brake in time. Intersection accident injuries, including whiplash and other accident related injuries, can be sustained by those involved in such accidents.

Red Light Violation

Running red lights happen far too often. Red light violations occur when a driver disregards a red traffic signal at an intersection, and collides with vehicles legally crossing on the green light. Such accidents are typically the result of a driver’s failure to obey traffic signals, and can lead to serious injuries, prompting the need for medical attention.

Left-Turn Accidents

These accidents often occur when a driver, attempting to make a left turn at an intersection, fails to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. These car accidents frequently result in T-bone or head-on collisions and can cause serious injuries. Intersection accident injuries may include broken bones, head trauma, or neck injuries.

Sideswipe Collision

A sideswipe takes place when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other in adjacent lanes make contact, usually due to one vehicle changing lanes without proper signaling or checking blind spots. These intersection accidents can lead to car accident injuries, particularly if one or both drivers lose control of their vehicles as a result.

In the unfortunate event of any of these types of intersection car accidents, you may suffer serious injuries. I have more than 40 years of expertise as an intersection accident lawyer, and will help you navigate all legal matters in order to obtain compensation for your injuries. It is very important for drivers to exercise caution, obey traffic signals, and drive defensively to reduce the risk of such motor vehicle accidents. But when they don’t, I’m only a call away, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Who is at Fault in an Intersection Accident?

Proving fault in an intersection accident can be complicated. It is important to take photos at the scene of the accident and to obtain contact information of any witnesses. Gather evidence to show the other driver was at fault.

Steps to Take After an Intersection Accident

1. Ensure Safety:

   • First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved in the motor vehicle collision. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid further accidents or traffic disruptions. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

2. Check for Injuries:

   • Assess yourself and passengers for injuries, especially severe or catastrophic injuries that may require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or emergency services if anyone is seriously injured.

3. Contact the Authorities:

   • Notify the police about the intersection accident. They will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report. This report is essential for insurance claims and legal purposes.

4. Exchange Information:

   • Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the collision. Include names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, insurance policy details, and driver’s license information. This step is crucial for me to assist you in seeking compensation.

5. Gather Evidence:

   • Document the accident scene by taking photos or videos. Capture vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be valuable when discussing the motor vehicle collision with insurance companies.

6. Obtain Witness Information:

   • If there are witnesses to the intersection accident, collect their names and contact information. Their statements may be useful for insurance claims or legal proceedings.

7. Seek Medical Attention:

   • Even if you don’t initially feel severe injuries, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, and medical records can provide crucial documentation for personal injury claims.

8. Report to Insurance:

   • Notify your insurance company about the intersection accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details and cooperate with their investigation.

9. Preserve Records:

   • Keep copies of all documents related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, insurance correspondence, and the police report. I will need these documents to build a strong case.

Making sure you are safe is so important. After that, make sure to obtain all of the information you can about the details of the situation. Then, call me. If you have been injured, or have suffered any property damage, I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Injuries

Listed below are injuries that are typically suffered when you’re involved in an accident at an intersection.

1. Whiplash:

   • Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, commonly seen in car crashes. Victims may need physical therapy, pain management, and rest to recover. Seeking financial compensation can help cover medical bills and lost wages during your recovery.

2. Broken Bones:

   • Intersection accidents can result in broken bones, such as fractures in limbs or ribs. Treatment may involve casting, surgery, or physical therapy. Victims may need to pursue financial compensation to cover medical expenses and lost wages due to recovery time.

3. Head Injuries:

   • Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), often occur from the impact of the collision. Recovery may involve medical monitoring, rehabilitation, and cognitive therapy.

4. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries:

   • Intersection accidents can result in back injuries or spinal cord damage, potentially causing paralysis. Often times these injuries require surgery, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

5. Internal Injuries:

   • Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can result from the force of a collision. It is possible that internal injuries are not initially apparent, which is why it is always important to seek medical attention after an accident. Treatment may include surgery or other medical interventions. Victims may require hospitalization and extended recovery periods.

6. Soft Tissue Injuries:

   • Injuries such as sprains, strains, or torn ligaments, can be painful and limit mobility. They typically require rest, physical therapy, and pain management.

7. Emotional Trauma:

   • Intersection accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety. The trauma often requires counseling, therapy, or medications to cope with the psychological impact of the accident.

8. Severe or Catastrophic Injury:

   • In cases of severe or catastrophic injuries, such as amputations or extensive burns, victims may face life-altering changes. These devastating injuries tend to require intensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

Intersection accidents can be devastating. Not only for the injured person, but for their family as well. Lost wages and medical expenses can be significant, especially for severe or catastrophic injuries. I am here to help and just a phone call away. We will discuss what happened, and make sure you have all of the information you need to file a accident claim. While you focus on your recovery, I will take care of the legal process!

How Long Do I Have Before I Need to File a Lawsuit for My Intersection Accident?

Under Ohio law, you have two years from the date of the intersection accident to file a lawsuit. If we cannot obtain a fair settlement through an insurance claim, I will ensure your lawsuit is filed on time.

Damages

1. Medical Expenses:

   • This includes compensation for all medical costs related to the accident, such as hospital bills, surgery fees, doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments necessitated by the accident.

2. Property Damage:

   • Money is allocated to repair or replace the damaged vehicle or other property, such as personal belongings inside the vehicle, that was affected in the accident.

3. Lost Wages:

   • Compensation for the income lost due to the inability to work while recovering from injuries sustained in the intersection accident. This includes past and future wages, bonuses, and other employment-related benefits.

4. Pain and Suffering:

   • Damages awarded to victims to compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, and suffering experienced as a result of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.

5. Loss of Consortium:

   • In cases of severe injury or fatality, loss of consortium damages compensates the victim’s spouse or family for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy due to the accident.

6. Head-On Collision Specific Damages:

   • If the accident occurred as a head-on collision, additional damages may be pursued to cover the specific injuries and losses associated with such high-impact crashes. These damages would encompass medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering that are unique to head-on collisions.

7. Future Expenses:

   • Money may be allocated for anticipated future expenses related to ongoing medical treatments, rehabilitation, or long-term care required as a result of the accident.

8. Wrongful Death:

   • If the accident resulted in a fatality, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one.

Collecting damages after an intersection accident is essential to helping victims recover from their physical, emotional, and financial losses. With more than 40 years of experience helping the great people of Cleveland win their cases, you can rest assured, I will do whatever is necessary to win your claim. Call me today! I specialize in working with insurance companies to obtain the compensation you need and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

I Can Help With Your Intersection Accident Case

When another driver causes a serious intersection accident, it is essential to hold that careless motorist accountable. You should not have to pay the cost for your injuries and other losses. Instead, file a claim to receive compensation from the negligent party. I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me today at 877.944.4373 for a free consultation, and to learn more about your options for seeking compensation after an intersection accident.