Intersection Accidents: Right-of-Way Laws and Determining Fault
Posted On: August 5, 2024This content has been reviewed by Brian P. Hodgkiss
Intersections are crucial points in road networks where traffic paths cross, creating potential conflict zones for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Right-of-way laws help manage these interactions, ensuring safe traffic flow to prevent accidents.
Adhering to these laws is especially important in Wisconsin due to the high number of accidents at intersections. In 2021, 5,669 injury crashes and 63 fatal crashes occurred due to the failure to yield the right-of-way.
Understanding these laws and how fault is determined in intersection accidents can impact your safety and legal outcomes if an accident occurs. If you’ve been involved in an intersection accident due to another driver’s negligence, our Wisconsin car accident attorneys can help you pursue fair compensation.
Right-of-Way Laws in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has established clear right-of-way laws to help motorists navigate intersections safely. Rules to remember include:
| Right-of-Way Law | Explanation |
| General Rule at Intersections | When two vehicles reach an intersection simultaneously, the car on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right. Vehicles traveling at unlawful speeds forfeit their right-of-way. |
| Turning Left or Making U-turns | Vehicles at intersections intending to turn left or make U-turns must yield to oncoming traffic. |
| Uncontrolled “T” Intersection | At uncontrolled “T” intersections, vehicles on the terminating road must yield to vehicles on the through road. |
| Entering Highway from Non-Highway Access | Vehicles entering a highway from an alley or non-highway access must yield to all vehicles approaching on the highway. |
| Approaching Intersections with Yield Signs | Drivers must yield to vehicles in the intersection or approaching closely enough to pose a hazard and, if necessary, stop. |
| Navigating Roundabouts | When entering or navigating roundabouts, vehicles must yield to vehicles or combinations of vehicles 40 feet in length or 10 feet in width. If two large vehicles meet in a roundabout, the one on the right yields to the one on the left. |
Common Accident Scenarios
When drivers don’t understand or follow right-of-way rules, it can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Common collision scenarios at intersections include:
- Left-Turn Collisions: Accidents during left turns are common when a driver overlooks oncoming traffic or underestimates its speed, leading to a collision in the intersection.
- T-Bone Crashes: This type of crash happens when a driver runs a red light or a stop sign, striking another vehicle crossing the intersection with the right of way.
- Rear-End Collisions: These occur at intersections when a driver doesn’t manage to stop in time, often due to distraction or following too closely, and hits the vehicle in front.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrians are especially vulnerable at intersections. They can be hit by vehicles whose drivers fail to yield the right of way. In 2022, 1,195 pedestrians were injured, and 72 lost their lives in vehicle accidents in Wisconsin.
Determining Fault in Right-of-Way Accidents
When an intersection accident occurs, determining fault involves considering various evidence. Typically, insurers and attorneys assess the following to assign liability and award settlements:
- Traffic Signals: Insurers and legal teams scrutinize footage and reports to verify if drivers obeyed traffic signals. For example, if evidence shows a driver ran a red light, that driver is typically held liable for the accident.
- Signage: Authorities assess whether drivers obeyed traffic signs like stop or yield. If drivers ignore these signs, they are typically considered at fault for accidents and held liable.
- Witness Statements: Witness statements help reconstruct accidents. They offer insights into who had the right of way or acted negligently, helping determine fault.
- Police Reports: Responding police officers’ reports will contain a detailed, objective view of the accident scenes. They will include critical information like vehicle positions and skid marks, which help establish which drivers violated right-of-way laws and determine fault.
If you are involved in a right-of-way collision at an intersection, speak with an attorney at Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers. We can review your case, determine fault, and help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the at-fault party.
Protect Your Rights After an Intersection Accident
Intersection accidents can result in severe injuries, substantial medical bills, and lost wages. At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take.
Our experienced Wisconsin car accident attorneys will fight to get you the compensation you deserve from the responsible party. Contact us today for a free case review and take the first step towards your recovery.
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