Intersection Crashes: Common Causes & Who’s at Fault

In 2024, there were 129,244 car crashes in Virginia. Many of these crashes occurred at intersections. People who suffer injuries in intersection crashes may have mild to permanent damage; these injuries can have a lasting impact on a person’s life and well-being.

In some intersection crash cases, the injured parties may have a legal case against the liable party. At Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers, we have a dedicated team that fights for our clients’ rights. If you are healing from an intersection crash, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. The team at Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers offers free case evaluations. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.

Common causes of intersection crashes

The most common reasons intersection crashes happen include the following:

Incorrect timing

Incorrect timing may lead to disastrous results. For example, a driver may try to beat a yellow light, only for the signal to turn red before they clear the intersection. This could lead to a crash if another driver doesn’t see the vehicle coming in time or does not have enough time to stop after realizing someone has entered the intersection against the light.

Inattention

Sometimes, drivers do not pay attention to what they are doing or where they are going. Distracted driving is a major cause of car crashes every year. Not paying attention often leads to missed traffic signals or other driving errors, which can result in a car crash.

Weather conditions

Some weather conditions are extremely hazardous. Some people have no choice but to travel in these conditions. Hazardous weather conditions can lead to car crashes or bad decision-making.

Speeding

Speeding, especially in high traffic areas, can lead to car crashes. When someone is speeding, they may find themselves unable to stop for a red light. They may also miss traffic signals or misunderstand whose turn it is at a four-way stop.

Driving under the influence

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can cause car crashes. People under the influence do not make sound decisions and act recklessly. Someone deciding to drive under the influence risks the health and safety of others.

If you were in an intersection accident because of someone’s bad decisions, our team would like to speak to you about your legal options. Contact us today.

Injuries from intersection crashes

Injuries from intersection crashes vary depending on how severe the accident is. Some people don’t have any injuries, while others are left with lasting damage. Common injuries caused by intersection car crashes include:

Traumatic brain injuries

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the US. A TBI can result in a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Concussions
• Brain bleeds
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Balance issues
• Memory or concentration issues
• Emotional changes (anxiety, depression, personality changes)
• Sleep disturbances
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vision problems

Some people have multiple symptoms; some have none. It’s important to get medical care and follow treatment plans when suffering a TBI.

Back or neck injuries

The impact of a car crash can lead to back or neck injuries. These can be mild, like whiplash, or more severe, such as spinal cord injuries. A back or neck injury may lead to life changes for the victim. This type of injury may take months to heal, resulting in lost wages and pain and suffering.

Soft tissue damage

Injury to muscles, tendons, tissue, or ligaments is considered soft tissue damage. Soft tissue injuries are sometimes classified by severity, such as mild, moderate, or severe. Some soft tissue injuries require surgery. Most of these types of injuries require a lot of rest to heal.

Broken bones

A car accident may lead to broken bones. The most common broken bones due to car crashes include:

• Wrists
• Legs
• Collarbones
• Arms
• Feet

Depending on the accident, there may be other broken bones. Some broken bones heal with time, while others require surgery and physical therapy.

Lacerations

Lacerations can happen on any part of the body after a car accident. Some require stitches, others don’t. Infection is a risk associated with lacerations after a crash.

How is fault determined?

Several factors are evaluated to determine fault after a car crash. If an injured party is suing the other party, the evidence must support liability by a preponderance of the evidence. Virginia also has contributory negligence laws. Pieces of evidence may include:

• Eyewitness statements
• Surveillance footage (from nearby businesses or city cameras)
• Dashcam recordings
• Blood or alcohol test results

Evidence is critical when building a personal injury case. An experienced attorney helps clients gather the required pieces to support their case. Do you believe the other driver in your car crash was at fault and needs help building a case? Contact the attorneys at Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers.

How can an auto accident attorney help?

Car accident attorneys help investigate crashes, build strong cases, and advocate for their clients. Attorneys negotiate with insurance companies and help clients determine liability. Once they have built a case, they evaluate the legal options and compensation eligibility. Knowledgeable attorneys use their legal insight to fight for clients and pursue compensation.

Possible legal options

Each case is unique, and no settlements are guaranteed. However, some cases may be eligible for some or all of the following compensation:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Long-term care or rehabilitation
• Pain and suffering

An experienced car accident attorney can help clients understand what compensation may be available based on the facts of their case.

Contact Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation

An intersection crash can be traumatic and daunting. Those suffering from injuries may struggle to navigate the legal process. An auto accident attorney helps clients through this process while advocating for their rights. If you were injured in an intersection crash, we encourage you to reach out to discuss your legal options. Contact Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers today.