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The Dangers of Intersection Collisions

On Behalf of Gierth-Eddy Law Offices, PLLC Nov. 11, 2022

Intersections are the most common places for accidents in Washington. If your T-bone accident occurred due to aggressive driving, such as not stopping on red or speeding through a yellow light, you might have catastrophic injuries, with months of recovery ahead of you. If you sustained injuries in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a claim. 

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, more than 50% of combined injury and fatal crashes occur at intersections in urban areas and 30% in rural areas. 

Intersection Accidents

An intersection occurs any time drivers must cross the path of other vehicles, such as at a crossroads. Novices and experienced drivers can misunderstand another driver’s intention, even when following road rules. Three-way intersections, multiple crossroads at odd angles and traditional cross streets provide opportunities for collisions.  As a result, the vast majority of intersection accidents result from driver errors. Some of the most common driver mistakes before an intersection include: 

  • Distracted driving 

  • Inattention 

  • Misjudgment of another car’s speed 

  • Illegal maneuvers 

  • Turning despite an obstructed view 

Catastrophic Injuries

Side impact car accidents are particularly damaging. The trunk or engine absorbs some of the force in rear and front impact collisions, but vehicles offer less protection from the side. In accidents where a large vehicle hits a smaller one broadside, life-altering injuries and death may result. 

Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage and neck injuries can lead to permanent disability. You may require multiple surgeries, physical therapy and on-going medical care for months or years. Although the aftermath of an accident is often confusing and stressful, side-impact collisions are particularly tragic due to the likelihood of a catastrophic injury or fatality. You might have grounds for a  wrongful death claim if you lost a loved one in a preventable accident.