Who Is at Fault for a Car Accident at a Roundabout or Intersection?

Determining who is at fault is often the first step when claiming compensation for a personal injury. While this process may seem simple enough, assigning blame and liability can be more complex. 

In this article, we shed light on this topic and offer insight into the process of determining fault in roundabout vehicle accident cases.

What Is a Roundabout Accident? 

Roundabouts or traffic circles are designed to help with traffic flow. Vehicles travel around an "island" in a counterclockwise direction to allow for the continuous flow of traffic. 

However, because there are no traffic signals telling drivers when to go, confusion or reckless driving can cause a crash. If an injured party can prove that negligence was involved, they can file a legal claim for compensation. 

Types of Roundabout Accidents

There are a number of different types of accidents that can occur at traffic circles. 

Rear-end Collision

When a driver doesn't accommodate for the speed that others in the roundabout are traveling, this type of accident can occur. It can also happen when a motorist doesn't see another driver stop to yield to traffic or a pedestrian. 

Right-of-Way Accident

Right-of-way accidents are among the most common accidents that occur at roundabouts. They often lead to T-bone collisions with the passenger side of the circling vehicles when a driver entering the traffic circle does not stop or yield to traffic already in the roundabout. 

Sideswipe Collision

These accidents can occur at roundabouts that have multiple lanes. If a driver doesn't indicate when he or she intends to change lanes or exit the roundabout, this kind of collision can occur.

Determining Fault in a Roundabout or Intersection Accident

Crashes can occur for many reasons at a traffic circle. Here are some ways to identify the one at fault: 

Understanding a Failure to Yield Right of Way

Motorists must yield the right-of-way when entering a traffic circle. Understanding the rules of a roundabout and who should yield when entering the roundabout can be critical in determining who was at fault. 

Reckless or Aggressive Driving Behavior

Claimants will also have to determine whether reckless or aggressive driving caused the accident. Speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to signal when they intend to exit the traffic circle can all count against a motorist. Typically, traffic cameras, eyewitness statements, and an accident report can all be used to prove negligence.

Identifying Distracted Driving

The use of smartphones while driving is increasing at an alarming rate. Looking down at a screen, talking on the phone, or even playing around with the radio can all cause a driver to lose focus. This means that they could miss changes in road conditions or an upcoming red light and fail to react appropriately.

Evidence from the scene of the accident, witness statements, and surveillance footage can be used to determine whether the at-fault driver was distracted at the time the accident occurred.

Who Is at Fault for This Type of Car Crash? 

One or more of the following parties could be responsible for a roundabout accident: 

• Entering drivers,

• Pedestrians,

• Circulating drivers,

• Cyclists,

• Exiting drivers, or 

• Government entities.

To determine who is at fault, victims must contact a reliable personal injury attorney who can provide reliable guidance and help to identify the person at fault. They can also answer questions like who is at fault in an underride accident NY?

The Importance of Working with an Experienced Team of Car Accident Lawyers with a Comprehensive Understanding of Traffic Laws

Obtaining dependable legal representation can be crucial for those involved in a car accident, particularly at places like roundabouts and intersections. 

Determining Fault in a No-fault State

Personal injury attorneys have a comprehensive knowledge of traffic laws and can provide the care and guidance injured victims need. They can ensure that the correct party is held liable for the accident and recover the maximum compensation.

Assistance with Insurance Companies

A law firm can protect its client's legal rights under the New York no-fault insurance system. They handle all correspondence with insurance companies, ensuring that victims aren't tricked into accepting lowball settlement offers. 

Rigorous Representation

Suppose an accident occurred because of the negligence of a government entity. In that case, obtaining compensation can be incredibly difficult. Fortunately, an experienced attorney offers rigorous representation and will not be afraid to tackle major organizations to secure a favorable outcome for their client. For legal advise or representation, hire a car accident lawyer in Long Island.

Injured in a Roundabout Accident and Struggling with Fault Determination? Contact Us for a Free Consultation to Get the Compensation You Deserve!

When negligence causes a driver to plummet into oncoming traffic, serious and often life-changing injuries can occur. Although obtaining financial compensation cannot reverse the damage that was done, it can ensure that victims get access to medical care.

However, the truth is that taking legal action is no easy task. It requires a keen understanding of traffic laws and legal regulations. Fortunately, The Law Office of Carl Maltese is committed to helping victims get justice. 

We offer free consultations to roundabout accident victims, which can be scheduled by calling (631) 857-3703. We can also consult on who is at fault in a brake failure accident NY?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a police report necessary to determine fault in a car accident at a roundabout?

Yes! A police report can provide vital evidence in a personal injury case. This is why it is crucial that law enforcement is called after a car crash. 

2. Can a pedestrian or cyclist file a personal injury claim against an at-fault driver if they are injured in a roundabout or intersection accident? 

Absolutely! If a pedestrian or cyclist is injured in a roundabout accident that occurred because of the negligence of one or more parties, he or she can file a legal claim for damages.

3. What damages can victims claim for collisions at traffic circles? 

Injured parties can claim both general and special damages. This includes the following: 

• Lost wages

• Property damage

• Medical expenses

• Pain and suffering

• Mental anguish

4. Can a victim file a personal injury claim if they were partly to blame for a roundabout accident? 

Yes! New York has a pure comparative negligence rule that allows injured parties to pursue compensation even if they were partly responsible for the accident. It is important to note, however, that the victim's compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault they bear.