Red light hanging above a paved street in the city

Main Causes of Intersection Accidents

By Jeremy Bradford
Founding Partner

Intersections, which bring multiple roads from different directions together, can get really busy. That’s why it’s no surprise that many car accidents occur there. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 40 percent of car accidents in the U.S. occur at intersections. 

As with any accident, injuries of varying severity can occur. The bad news is that car occupants, bicyclists, and pedestrians can be seriously hurt in intersection accidents. The good news is that many of these accidents are preventable. The NHTSA conducted a study that found that 96 percent of collisions occurring at intersections are the result of driver error. 

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents

The most common driver errors that cause intersection accidents include:

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Inattention
  • Aggressive driving
  • External distractions
  • Speed misjudgment
  • Illegal maneuvering
  • Turning with an obstructed view
  • False assumption of another driver’s actions

Many of these accidents occur when one driver is making a right- or left-hand turn. However, accidents still occur when a car is driving directly through an intersection. These accidents are often caused by:

  • Unobserved stops at stop signs
  • Unobserved yielding at yield signs
  • Ignored traffic signals
  • Drivers improperly turning into drivers going straight (“T-Bone” crashes)

“T-Bone” Crashes

The impact in intersection accidents usually occurs on the side of the vehicle. This is called a “T-Bone” crash.  Unfortunately, T-Bone accidents often result in some of the most serious injuries because there is less protection on the side of the vehicle than in the front or rear of the vehicle. This therefore generally results in either the driver or passenger receiving direct impact. 

Common Injuries Suffered in Intersection Accidents

Common types of injuries suffered in intersection accidents include:

  • Broken bones
  • Soft tissue injuries (e.g., sprains, bruises, and cuts)
  • Neck injuries
  • Back/spinal injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Intersection accidents can cause significant damage to your vehicle and serious injuries to your person. These accidents can have a big financial impact as you struggle to pay all associated bills. If an intersection accident occurred due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, you may be entitled to compensation. 

Bradford Law Fights for Those in Charlotte Who Have Been Injured in an Intersection Accident

Injuries from an intersection accident can have a significant impact on your life.  If you have suffered injuries as the result of an intersection incident, you may be entitled to compensation. While no money can undo what has transpired, compensation can help you to move forward with your life.

At Bradford Law, we understand the lasting impact a car accident can have on you. We will work tirelessly to help you receive meaningful compensation and move in the direction of recovery. We have comprehensive knowledge of the applicable laws and will put those laws to work for you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

About the Author
I am Jeremy Bradford, the founding and managing attorney of Bradford Law. From my offices in Charlotte, NC, I travel all across North Carolina helping injured people fight against insurance companies, in what could be life-altering circumstances. I have made a point to develop strong relationships with my clients. I take the trust my clients put in me personally and put myself into every case. If my client calls, my client will always be able to speak directly with me. You will get to know me as we work our way through the personal injury process. So when we make recommendations on whether to settle or go to trial, you will know your best interests are always at heart.