Why Do So Many Accidents Occur at Traffic Lights?
Many motorists drive through intersections several times a day. In fact, intersections are one of the most common places where accidents occur. These accidents happen for many reasons, from distracted driving and trying to beat a red light, to following too closely and illegal street racing.
Top Causes Of Car Accidents at Traffic Lights
Some of the most common causes of auto accidents at traffic lights include miscalculating the speed or intentions of another motorist, aggressive driving, illegal maneuvers, and speeding. Other factors that can result in a motor vehicle collision at traffic lights include:
Tailgating
Tailgating is another common cause of accidents at traffic lights. Most rear-end accidents take place at intersections when the rear driver follows too closely and can’t brake fast enough to avoid a collision.
Speeding
When a driver speeds, it takes them longer to slow down or stop their vehicle, which can make it almost impossible to avoid an accident. Additionally, the injuries sustained are more likely to be life-changing or fatal.
Failure to Yield
Drivers must yield at traffic lights, four-way stops, and stop signs. However, many drivers who cause accidents at traffic lights don’t obey these traffic laws.
Trying to Beat Red Lights
A driver can cause a dangerous collision if they speed, trying to beat a red light.
Distracted Driving
Motorists can fail to see a light turning yellow or red if they’re talking on the phone, texting, speaking to someone in their vehicle, or participating in any activity that takes their attention away from the road.
Driving Under the Influence
If a driver is intoxicated they can cause an auto accident by disobeying traffic signals, driving recklessly, or speeding.
Failing to Drive Cautiously in Bad Weather
Failing to slow down during bad weather conditions, such as snow, ice, rain, or fog, can prevent a driver from driving through an intersection safely.
Injuries Sustained in Traffic Light Collisions
Accidents at intersections occur all the time. The injuries that are sustained can be life-changing or fatal. This is especially true for motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Common injuries that are reported by accident victims involved in collisions at traffic lights include:
- Soft tissue damage
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Sprains
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones/bone fractures
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Crush injuries
- Loss of limb
- Contusions
Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
If you were involved in an accident at a traffic light that was caused by the negligence of another motorist, hiring a car accident lawyer can help you recover the fair settlement you deserve.
A car accident attorney can help by:
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering and analyzing evidence
- Filing paperwork
- Consulting with experts
- Handling all communication with the insurance company
- Negotiating a fair settlement
- Filing a lawsuit if you suffered a serious injury
And more.
Contact Us Today
At Friedland & Associates, we recognize that a car accident can leave a lasting impact on every aspect of your life. From medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, the toll can be overwhelming. Our car accident attorneys will go above and beyond to fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you need to rebuild and move forward. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced member of our legal team.
