Stop sign accidents are a common cause of car crashes, but determining who’s at fault can sometimes be tricky. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, understanding fault in these situations can help you navigate the aftermath and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
In this post, we’ll break down what leads to stop sign accidents, how fault is determined, and what to do if you’re involved in one.
Common Causes of Stop Sign Accidents
Stop signs are in place to keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely, but when drivers don’t follow the rules, accidents happen. Here are some of the most common reasons why stop sign accidents occur in California:
- Failure to stop completely (California Roll): Drivers don’t come to a full stop and continue through the intersection.
- Intentionally running a stop sign: Some drivers ignore the sign completely.
- Distracted driving: Phones, passengers, or other distractions cause drivers to miss stop signs.
- Speeding: Driving too fast to stop in time or misjudging how much time they have to stop.
- Poor visibility: Obstructions like trees, parked cars, or poorly placed signs can make it hard to see the stop sign.
- Right-of-Way Confusion: Drivers may be unsure who has the right of way, leading to accidents.
How Is Fault Determined in Stop Sign Accidents?
When it comes to stop sign accidents, fault usually hinges on the rules of right-of-way. According to the California DMV, the driver who arrives at the stop sign first typically has the right of way. But if two drivers arrive simultaneously, the driver on the right goes first. Pedestrians also have the right of way at intersections, and drivers must yield to them.
If you’re in a stop sign accident, investigators will examine who followed these rules. They’ll also consider factors like road conditions and whether any signage was obstructed.
Intersection Layout: Does It Affect Fault?
The layout of an intersection plays a big role in accidents and fault determination. For example:
- Four-way stops: The first vehicle to arrive has the right of way.
- T-junctions: Drivers on the terminating road must yield to those on the through road.
- Roundabouts: Drivers must yield to traffic already in the circle.
In some cases, poorly marked or confusing intersections can make it harder to determine who’s at fault. Investigators will look at the intersection’s design, road markings, and signs to figure out who made the mistake.
What Happens If You Hit a Car That Ran a Stop Sign?
If a car runs a stop sign and you hit them, it doesn’t automatically mean the other driver is fully responsible. Other factors, like road conditions, obstacles, and the actions of other drivers, might also come into play. A thorough investigation will typically examine witness statements, video footage, and traffic laws to establish who violated the rules and caused the accident.
Pedestrians and Stop Sign Accidents
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable at stop signs. In California, pedestrians have the right of way at intersections, even if there are no signals. Drivers are required to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, and failure to do so can result in serious accidents.
Also, recent changes in legislation—specifically Assembly Bill 2147—give pedestrians the right to cross the street legally at any point, as long as it’s safe to do so. Drivers still need to stay vigilant and stop for pedestrians, even when they’re not at a crosswalk.
E-Bikes and Stop Signs: What You Need to Know
With the rise of electric bikes (e-bikes), traffic laws have had to adjust. In California, e-bike riders must follow the same traffic rules as traditional bicycles, including:
- Stopping at stop signs
- Yielding to pedestrians
- Following speed limits
If you’re involved in an accident with an e-bike, investigators will assess whether the rider followed these traffic laws to determine fault.
What to Do After a Stop Sign Accident
If you’re involved in a stop sign accident, follow these steps:
- Assess the damage: Check if your car or others are damaged and make sure everyone is safe.
- Report the incident: Notify local authorities and file a report.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the crash, the broken stop sign, and the surrounding area. This can help with insurance claims and legal cases.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident and provide all relevant information.
It’s also important to seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Injuries from stop sign accidents can show up hours or days later.
Can You Go to Jail for Hitting a Stop Sign?
Generally, hitting a stop sign is not a criminal offense unless it involves reckless driving or DUI. However, if you cause an accident by failing to stop at a stop sign or violate other traffic laws, you can be held liable for the damages.
When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a stop sign accident, especially if you’ve sustained injuries, it’s a good idea to contact a personal injury attorney. Here are a few situations when you should reach out:
- If there’s a dispute over fault
- If insurance companies are giving you trouble
- If you have substantial medical bills or lost wages
- If you’re dealing with a hit-and-run accident
An attorney can help protect your rights, handle insurance negotiations, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Get Legal Help with TraumaLaw
If you’ve been in a stop sign accident and need help navigating the aftermath, don’t do it alone. TraumaLaw is here to assist you. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies, figuring out fault, or seeking compensation for injuries, we’re ready to fight for your rights. Call us today at 866-608-3601 for a free case evaluation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve!
