CALL NOW

Call 24/7 for a FREE case evaluation

Call now (866) 393-4334

$100,000,000

in California case results

$20,000,000

in California jury verdicts

14

award-winning attorneys in network

Hiring a car accident attorney in your area

You may have many questions when you are involved in a car wreck, we are here to help! We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions by stop sign car accident victims in the US.

Who is usually at fault in a stop sign car crash?

Typically, the driver who failed to stop at the stop sign or didn’t yield the right of way is considered at fault in a stop sign car crash.

However, various factors can influence fault determination, including the details of the incident and local traffic laws.

Should you never admit fault in a stop sign car accident?

Yes, it’s generally advisable not to admit fault at the scene of a car accident.

Even if you believe you were at fault, there could be factors you’re unaware of that contributed to the accident.

It’s best to let law enforcement and insurance companies investigate and determine fault.

Do you need a lawyer to represent you for a stop sign car accident case?

While not always required, having a lawyer can significantly benefit you in a stop sign car accident case.

They can help navigate the legal complexities, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.

How much will legal fees cost for a stop sign car accident claim?

Legal fees for a stop sign car accident claim can vary depending on the lawyer’s fee structure.

Some lawyers charge hourly fees, requiring payment for the time spent on the case.

However, many people opt for contingency-based lawyers which do not charge fees upfront, only collect a percentage of the settlement if they win the case.

Navigating stop sign intersections can often lead to car accidents, with fault determination proving complex.

Ignoring a stop sign is a clear violation of traffic laws and typically results in the offending driver bearing legal responsibility.

However, in multi-vehicle accidents, assigning blame can be challenging.

If you’re a victim of such an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for losses such as medical bills and vehicle costs.

A skilled car accident attorney can be pivotal in proving the other party’s negligence and helping you secure compensation.

Navigating 3-way stop sign intersections

About Fault In Stop Sign Accidents

Determining fault in stop sign accidents is a complex task.

Although running a stop sign is a traffic violation, making the offender generally liable, there are situations where this may not be the case.

Fault is not solely based on disregarding a stop sign.

Instead, fault considers various factors including:

  • The exact location of the motorists at the accident’s time
  • Their adherence to the ‘right of way’
  • Speed
  • Distractions
  • Road and weather conditions

Witness accounts, surveillance videos, and police reports are also integral in fault assessment.

 

Legal Options For Victims Of Stop Sign Accidents

If you’re a victim of a stop sign accident, you have several legal options at your disposal.

The most common course of action is filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver and their insurance company.

This claim is based on any evidence collected at the motor vehicle accident scene, including photos, police reports, and witness testimonies.

The goal of a personal injury claim is to receive compensation for any damages incurred, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The at-fault driver’s insurance company will typically negotiate a settlement.

If an agreeable resolution isn’t reached during these negotiations, the case may proceed to trial.

During the trial, the evidence is presented to a judge or jury, who then renders a judgment, or verdict.

The verdict determines whether the defendant was at fault and what amount of compensation, if any, they must pay to the victim.

 

Causes Of Stop Sign Accidents

Stop sign accidents are unfortunately common and can result in serious injuries and even fatalities.

Often, these accidents are due to negligent drivers who speed, ignore traffic signals, run stop signs, or fail to notice pedestrians who may be crossing the street.

Speeding

One of the common causes of stop sign accidents is speeding.

Drivers who speed may be unable to slow down in time to make a complete stop at the sign, leading to serious accidents.

This can be particularly dangerous at intersections or crosswalks where side impact accidents are common.

Drinking And Driving/Using Drugs

Impaired driving due to alcohol or drug use significantly increases the risk of stop sign accidents.

Such drivers often fail to notice the sign or misjudge the need for a complete stop, resulting in potentially catastrophic incidents.

Distracted Driving

A driver distracted by their cell phone, radio, or other activities is less likely to notice a stop sign or react appropriately.

This lack of focus can lead to accidents, often having a serious impact on both drivers and pedestrians in crosswalks.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive drivers who ignore stop signs, tailgate, or make risky maneuvers can cause accidents.

Their failure to make a complete stop or yield the right of way can result in side impact crashes, otherwise known as ‘T-bone accidents’, and endanger everyone on the road.

 

Common Injuries In Stop Sign Car Accidents

Car accidents at stop signs can cause serious damage and lead to a wide range of injuries.
These injuries may require substantial medical expenses and long-term care.

Here are some common injuries that can occur:

  • Whiplash: This is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid, back-and-forth movement of the neck, common in rear-end accidents.
  • Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can occur from the impact of the collision or if the victim’s head strikes a part of the vehicle.
  • Broken bones: The force of the collision, particularly with oncoming traffic, can lead to broken or fractured bones.
  • Spinal cord injuries: These can result from the sudden, traumatic blow to your spine that fractures, dislocates, crushes, or compresses one or more of your vertebrae.
  • Internal injuries: The impact may damage internal organs, leading to serious complications and requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Cuts and abrasions: Broken glass and metal can cause these injuries. While less severe, they can still lead to significant medical expenses if not treated properly.

Always seek immediate medical attention following a car accident, even if you think you’re uninjured.

Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately and can worsen over time if left untreated.

 

National Stop Sign Rules

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has established several stop sign rules.

These guidelines are designed to prevent accidents, such as rear-end collisions and ensure the safety of all road users, including motorists and bicyclists.

The NHTSA stop sign rules are as follows:

  • The First to Stop Is the First to Go: This rule states that the first vehicle to arrive at the stop sign has the right to proceed first. Following this rule prevents confusion and potential collisions at intersections.
  • Farthest Right Goes First: When two vehicles arrive at the stop sign at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right to proceed first. This rule helps maintain order and prevent accidents at four-way stops.
  • Straight Traffic Goes First: If both a turning vehicle and a straight-going vehicle reach the intersection simultaneously, the vehicle going straight has the right of way. This prevents potential side or rear-end collisions.
  • When in Doubt – Bail Out: In unclear situations, it’s best to yield to other traffic. This includes yielding to pedestrians and bicyclists, even if they don’t have a red light. The safety of all road users is the priority.

 

Penalties For Stop Sign Violations

Penalties for stop sign violations can vary significantly from state to state, but some common consequences include fines, traffic tickets, and points added to the driver’s license.

For instance, in some states, a violation could result in a fine ranging from $100 to $500.

In others, you might receive a traffic ticket that could lead to points on your driving record, potentially resulting in higher insurance rates.

In some cases, repeated violations or serious incidents can lead to license suspension.

Damages In Stop Sign Accident Claims

When you file a claim after a stop sign accident, you may be eligible for various types of damages.

These are designed to compensate you for the losses you’ve suffered as a result of the accident.

Common damages in stop sign accident claims include:

  • Medical expenses: This covers the cost of medical treatment, including hospital bills, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
  • Lost wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, you could be compensated for lost income. This also includes loss of earning capacity if you’re unable to perform your job as before.
  • Property damage: This refers to the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
  • Pain and suffering: These damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced as a result of the accident.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: If the accident has impacted your ability to enjoy day-to-day activities or hobbies, you may be entitled to these damages.

 

Factors In Stop Sign Accident Cases

When evaluating stop sign accident cases, it’s essential to consider a variety of aspects that contribute to the incident.

Fault

Establishing fault is pivotal in stop sign accident cases, though it is not always explicitly clear who is at fault.

Determining fault involves determining which party violated traffic laws, such as not adhering to the stop sign or failing to yield.

The party found at fault is typically responsible for the damages caused by the accident.

Level Of Negligence

The extent of the driver’s negligence is also a significant consideration.

For example, a driver who merely misjudged their turn at the stop sign may not be seen as grossly negligent.

Inversely, however, a driver who blatantly ran the stop sign — especially while speeding or driving under the influence — may be considered as exhibiting gross negligence.

Proper Signage

The condition of the stop sign can impact the case.

If the stop sign was obscured or compromised due to previous incidents or natural occurrences, the driver deemed at fault might not bear full liability.

In such instances, the entity responsible for maintaining the sign could also share in the liability.

Evidence Of Accident

Evidence gathered from the accident scene is vital in stop sign accident cases.

This includes video footage, photographs, and witness testimonies, all of which can provide a more detailed account of the incident and help ascertain who was at fault.

 

How A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help With Your Case

A car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance with your case, particularly in complex scenarios like stop sign accidents.

Firstly, they can provide tailored legal advice, helping you navigate the intricacies of the law and ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

Even if your case involves a larger vehicle like a truck, a car accident lawyer is equipped to handle the complexities that come with such incidents.

They can assess the specifics of the truck accident, which often involve unique factors like commercial insurance policies and federal regulations.

If a loved one was involved in the accident, for example, a lawyer can also help you understand the potential for a wrongful death claim or survivor’s benefits.

 

Reach Out For Help With Your Stop Sign Accident Case

If you’ve been involved in a stop sign accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.

Our law firm is staffed with experienced personal injury lawyers ready to guide you through this challenging time.

Contact our law offices today to begin the process of securing the compensation you deserve.

WE’RE OPEN NOW

Our staff are standing by to help you find the perfect attorney for your case.

Image of the lawyer

Published: 30 May 2023

ARTICLE SOURCES

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. “Red Light Running.” Retrieved May 16, 2023, from https://www.iihs.org/topics/red-light-running.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Bicyclist Yield as Stop Fact Sheet.” Retrieved May 16, 2023, from https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/2022-03/Bicyclist-Yield-As-Stop-Fact-Sheet-032422-v3-tag.pdf.

Traffic Safety Marketing. “Rules of the Road.” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Retrieved May 16, 2023, from https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/teen-driver-safety

U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration. “Intersection Safety – About.” Retrieved May 16, 2023, from https://highways.dot.gov/safety/intersection-safety/about.

ON THIS PAGE