Intersection accidents are among the most common and serious crashes on the road. These collisions can happen in an instant and can lead to severe injuries, car damage, emotional stress, and even traffic deaths.
As a driver, it’s important to know the different types of intersection accidents and their causes. This knowledge can help you stay safer behind the wheel and understand your options in the event of an accident. Keep reading to learn about the most common types of intersection crashes.
Key Takeaways
- Common types of collisions at intersections include broadside, head-on, rear-end, and left-turn collisions.
- Intersection accidents are often caused by aggressive, impaired, and distracted driving.
- If the accident resulted in injuries or involved several cars, you may need to work with a personal injury attorney to pursue compensation.
Most Common Types of Intersection Accidents
After an intersection accident, the kind of crash you were in can affect your claim. An intersection accident lawyer can help you determine the cause of your accident and help you understand your options. Below, you can learn about the most common types of intersection collisions:
Broadside Collisions
Broadside collisions (also known as T-bone crashes) are the most common type of intersection accident. It occurs when the front of a single vehicle crashes with the side of another, forming the letter “T.”
When T-bone accidents happen, it's generally either because the driver was running a red light or stop sign, or failed to yield the right-of-way. The result of a broadside accident can be very serious and sometimes deadly.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions happen when one vehicle crashes into the rear of another car. This can happen if the trailing driver is driving too closely, brakes suddenly for a yellow or red light, or fails to pay attention to changes in traffic flow. These types of accidents are also some of the most common seen at intersections.
Left-Turn Collisions
Left-turn collisions are often caused by poor visibility or errors in judging the right moment to turn. These crashes are frequent when a driver attempts to make the turn at the last second, especially as a traffic light is changing, or when the driver miscalculates the speed or distance of approaching vehicles. These accidents are sometimes broadside, sometimes head-on, and sometimes involve other types of collisions.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are one of the less common types of intersection collisions. However, they are one of the most dangerous
car accidents one can experience. They occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide.
Head-on collisions can happen because a driver mistakenly turns into oncoming traffic, is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or can’t interpret the traffic signals.
Most Common Causes of Intersection Car Accidents
Whether at an intersection with a light or no traffic control device, when intersection accidents occur, they’re often attributed to risky driving choices or a failure to follow traffic laws. Some behaviors are more common than others, and they usually influence who is at fault. The most common causes include:
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is one of the major causes of intersection accidents. Some drivers speed through yellow lights, tailgate the car ahead, or try to beat the signal. These risky moves often lead to vehicle, bike, and pedestrian accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become a major issue. When a driver looks down at a phone, adjusts the radio, or takes their eyes off the road for even a few seconds, they can easily miss a traffic sign or overlook pedestrians and other vehicles.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even certain medications reduces the driver's reaction time and overall ability to make safe decisions behind the wheel. Impaired drivers often misjudge distances, ignore signals, or drift into the wrong lane.
Safety Tips for Intersections
To avoid accidents while driving through an intersection, it helps to know certain safety tips. Following these simple tips can reduce your risk and make your drive safer. Some of the most important tips to follow include:
- Never speed up through intersections.
- Stop for pedestrians.
- Practice defensive driving.
- Use your turn signals early.
- Avoid distractions while driving.
- Understand traffic signals and signs.
- Always check for oncoming vehicles.
- Keep a safe distance between your car and the one in front of you.
What Might You Be Owed for an Intersection Accident?
After an intersection crash, accident victims are often left dealing with car repairs, increasing medical bills, and the emotional strain of recovery. These challenges can add up quickly, and trying to shoulder the burden alone can feel overwhelming.
If a negligent driver caused your accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. You can seek compensation for:
- Economic Damages – These cover measurable financial losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-Economic Damages – These compensate for the personal and emotional impact of the traffic collision, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of daily life.
- Punitive Damages – This compensation isn’t tied to the victim’s direct losses. Instead, these damages are awarded in rare cases to punish a driver for especially reckless or intentional behavior and to discourage similar conduct in the future.
Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer for an Intersection Crash?
Not every intersection accident calls for legal help, and that's why it’s important to know if your situation truly requires an attorney. Here's how to know if you may need a lawyer for your situation:
- The accident involved several cars
- The other driver doesn't have insurance
- You're not certain who caused the accident
- The insurance company is denying your claim
- You have minor or serious injuries
Seek Compensation With the Help of a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney
Intersection crashes can leave you with serious injuries and rising medical bills. These challenges are often difficult to face alone, but knowing your options for compensation can help you take the right steps.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an intersection crash, a New Orleans personal injury attorney from the Cardone Law Firm can guide you through the legal process. Our experienced personal injury lawyer is ready to handle your case and do everything possible to secure the compensation you may be entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an intersection crash, don’t wait to get help. Contact the Cardone Law Firm to fight for your rights.
