Car accidents at intersections can occur for various reasons, such as speeding drivers who fail to stop. The result is often severe injuries that can be life-threatening. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), intersection car accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury, with about one-half of all traffic injuries in the United States happening at intersections. The experienced car accident attorneys at Northern Plains Justice, LLP can help injured intersection accident victims get the compensation they deserve and understand what it takes to win a claim.
Common Causes and Types of Intersection Accidents
Most intersections have traffic lights or stop signs in place to prevent the possibility of an accident. Drivers are expected to obey these signs, but that is not always the case. A driver can be negligent or reckless in their actions, and if they violate the traffic laws cause a severe accident.
Some of the most common causes of an intersection car crash are:
- Failing to stop or yield at an intersection
- Making a left-hand turn into oncoming traffic
- Following the vehicle in front of them too closely
- Trying to beat a red light
- Speeding and not being able to stop at the intersection
- Being distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Signaling improperly
- Not paying attention to other drivers or pedestrians
While most intersection accidents happen due to a driver being negligent, an intersection accident can also occur if traffic controls are missing or damaged.
A driver’s reckless or negligent driving can result in the following types of collisions:
- Rear-end accident
- Head-on collision
- T-bone accident
- Pedestrian accident
- Multiple vehicle collision
Intersection Car Crash Injuries
Intersection accidents can result in devastating injuries such as:
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Broken or fractured bones
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Whiplash
- Lacerations
What to Do After an Intersection Accident
After being involved in a South Dakota car accident, there are several things to do that can protect your potential recovery, such as:
- Call 9-1-1. Contact law enforcement immediately after the crash to alert them of the accident and of possible injuries.
- Seek immediate medical attention. After an accident, you should always seek immediate medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained, even if you think the injury is minor or you are not in pain.
- Gather evidence. If it is possible to remain at the scene of the accident, gather evidence that can be used to support your claim. Evidence may include photos of the other vehicle and your injuries and the other driver’s contact information, including their name, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and contact information for any eyewitnesses to the accident.
- Contact an attorney. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and possible compensation.
Potential Damages in a Car Accident Case
In South Dakota, if you are injured in a car accident, you can file a claim against the negligent driver’s insurance company to recover damages. To recover compensation, you must prove that the other driver was responsible for the crash. Hiring a car accident lawyer can help investigate the cause of the collision, prove the other driver was negligent in their actions, and ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to receive.
If the other party was found negligent, the potential damages you may be entitled to receive for car accident injuries include:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
Contact a Sioux Falls Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were injured in an intersection car crash and need legal help, contact Northern Plains Justice, LLP today for a consultation. We can help you get the compensation you deserve after being injured in a South Dakota car accident due to another party’s negligence. To schedule an appointment to discuss your case, contact us online or call our office at 605-644-5003. We charge no fees unless we win your case.