The right of way is something we all learned in driving school and something most of us use every day. However, things can go wrong fast when drivers do not know how to use the right of way or other drivers ignore this rule. If you were in a car accident where you failed to use the right of way, this could hurt your accident claim. Consider talking to a Jackson car accident attorney if this happened to you.
Most Important Right-of-Way Rules
Right-of-way rules vary depending on whether you are turning or navigating through a complex intersection. Pedestrians, motorcyclists, and drivers alike all have to follow these right-of-way rules. The main right of way rules to be aware of are:
- Yield to road signs, pedestrians crossing, and school buses
- Yield to drivers going straight when turning left or right at an intersection
- When coming to a four-way stop at the same time, yield to the driver on your right
While these basic rules are helpful, they can become less clear in unique situations. In parking lots, for example, where some drivers drive spontaneously through the parking lot, the right of way can become lost. This is why it is often best to drive slowly and cautiously in parking lots. Be extra vigilant of other cars driving any which way before moving forward.
Drivers may also become confused at complex intersections with five roads or more and at circular intersections. The best way to handle circular intersections is to yield to traffic in the circle and only enter when there is a gap. Rushing things is what often leads to right-of-way accidents along with:
- Assuming what the other driver will do
- Trying to dominate the right of way
- Not double-checking what the other driver will do
How Right of Way Impacts Your Claim
Considering that one of the most common causes of car accidents is failure to yield the right of way, this rule can impact your claim in various ways. Failing to yield the right of way can make it hard to obtain compensation and could hold you liable for the other driver’s injuries.
This is because the key factor in car accident claims and lawsuits is negligence. Not yielding the right of way is considered breaking traffic laws, something that is automatically considered negligent. The other driver might be able to sue you if this happened in your case and if their injuries are severe.
Try contacting a Jackson car accident lawyer if you have concerns about this. One of our lawyers can help you figure out what legal options you may have.
Multi-Vehicle Accident Attorney in Jackson
Finding out your claim was rejected by the insurance company can be frustrating. You do not have to stop here. Call the Germany Law Firm, PLLC by dialing (607) 487-0555 to talk to a Mississippi auto accident lawyer for a consultation today. Our legal team can help you seek compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages.