Intersection Accidents

Earlier this year, CBS13 reported that a certain intersection in Citrus Heights was leaving neighbors and residents concerned. In fact, for years, it has been the site of repeated crashes.

These accidents are happening at the intersection of Fair Oaks Boulevard and Old Auburn Road, and while some find it humorous, others fear their homes and lives are in danger.

Such a report has led many to wonder if the city will take steps to better prevent accidents from occurring at this location. However, it is a solemn reminder always to be alert when approaching any intersection. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 2.5 million of these types of accidents occur every year. These accidents occur for a variety of reasons:

• A driver failing to yield
• A driver being distracted
• A driver traveling at unsafe speeds
• Turning with an obstructed view
• Misjudging the space between vehicles
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI)
• Running red or yellow lights
• Confusion of signs or lights
• Sun glare blocking the view
• Debris in the road
• Misjudging the speed of one's own vehicle or the other vehicles on the road
• Other factors such as confusing signs, improperly marked lanes, water pooling, potholes, etc.

How does a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney determine who's at fault?

Liability is usually placed on the driver who violated traffic laws. However, when multiple cars are involved, it can become difficult to determine who is at fault. Law enforcement does its best to determine the cause of the crash, but it is not always correct. If you suffered injury from an accident that was not your fault, hiring a personal injury attorney who has the resources to investigate the accident scene can be invaluable to helping ensure the guilty person is held accountable.

Injuries caused by these types of incidents can be very serious and even fatal. Common injuries that happen are:

• spinal cord injuries
• back injuries
• neck/shoulder injuries
• head/brain injuries
• broken bones

About 50 percent of car accidents happen at intersections; of that 50 percent, 20 percent result in a fatality. In fact, reports indicate there are about 700-800 intersection accidents that end with someone losing their lives every year.

What should I do after a car crash in Sacramento?

After an intersection accident or any motor vehicle crash, the steps you take are crucial to ensuring that you are compensated for your injuries. If one is physically able to, the following tasks should be completed as soon as possible:

• Report the accident to the police immediately.
• Take pictures or videos of the crash scene.
• Immediately seek medical help if you have been injured.
• Speak with a personal injury lawyer before speaking to any insurance adjusters.
• Speaking to insurance adjusters before meeting with your lawyer could result in you getting less money.
• Be sure to carefully document your expenses and losses from the accident.