In a Four-Way Stop Car Accident, How Is Fault Ascertained?
Four-way stops can be confusing, and when an accident occurs at one, insurance adjusters will investigate to determine fault. Sometimes, an insurer may shift more of the blame onto one party than it deserves, though. When this happens, a car accident attorney can conduct an investigation and challenge the insurer’s determination of fault.
A fort myers car accident lawyer can use a variety of evidence, such as the damage done to the vehicles, to determine fault for a four-way stop car accident. They can then build a case for compensation and work to hold a liable party accountable.
Four-Way Stop Car Accidents Can Be Difficult to Investigate
Four-way stop intersections usually refer to those that have four stop signs instead of a traffic light. The lack of traffic cameras can make investigating a car accident more difficult. Still, a lawyer can use other evidence to prove fault. Ultimately, the driver or drivers who failed to yield the right of way would be liable for an accident.
Right of Way at a Four-Way Stop
In general, when approaching a four-way stop, each driver should yield the right of way to the motorists who arrived at the intersection first, according to Florida Statutes § 316.123. If two drivers arrive at the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left should yield the right of way to the driver on the right. These intersections can be dangerous if drivers engage in negligent behavior, such as distracted driving or speeding.
Ideally, drivers should come to a complete stop at the intersection and stay alert. Other drivers may wave or flash their lights to signal that another driver can go. Still, four-way stops can be confusing, so it’s always good to idea to proceed slowly when it’s your turn to cross the intersection.
How a Lawyer Can Help Determine Fault in a Four-Way Stop Car Accident
A Miami car accident lawyer can handle your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit and challenge the insurer adjuster if they attempt to undervalue or deny your claim. They can use the following forms of evidence to demonstrate another party’s negligence:
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert witness testimony, such as the report from an accident reconstructionist
- Dashcam footage
- The damage done to the vehicles
- A police report
- Pictures of the accident scene
They can also gather evidence of your losses, such as medical records and wage statements, to seek fair financial recovery.
What Else Can a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
Aside from investigating your accident and gathering evidence of negligence and your losses, a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can handle your case from start to finish. For example, they can:
- Complete and submit all the necessary documents for your claim or lawsuit
- Manage all communications with the other parties, their insurers, and their representatives
- Negotiate with insurers for a fair settlement
- Represent you in a trial
When you work with a car accident attorney from our firm, they can also regularly update you on your case so that you never feel left in the dark. We advocate for car accident victims and their families, and we aim to make the legal process as smooth as possible.
Potential Compensation After a Four-Way Stop Car Crash
Your potential compensation after a car crash depends on your injuries. Generally, the more severe they are, the more compensation you can seek. Our car accident attorneys can look into your losses and seek damages, such as:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income from the time you had to take off work
- Reduced earning capacity if you cannot earn your pre-injury wages
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Disability
- Property damage
Other accident-related losses may warrant compensation in your case. During a free consultation, we can explore your legal options.
Be Careful When Speaking With an Insurer After a Four-Way Stop Car Crash
After any type of car accident, you should report it to your insurer. An adjuster may ask for a statement if you or another driver involved files a claim. It’s important to be careful when speaking with an adjuster because they could take anything you say out of context and use it to assign you fault for the accident.
Do not speculate on whose fault the accident was, especially since you may not have all the information a thorough investigation can reveal. Instead, stick to the facts, such as the date and location of the accident and a description of the vehicles involved. A Boynton Beach car accident lawyer from our firm can handle all the communications with insurers going forward.
Let The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato Help After a Four-Way Stop Car Accident
You have been through enough, and you deserve to focus on your physical recovery. While you do that, our team can get to work on your case at no upfront cost. We take personal injury cases on contingency, so we can begin fighting for compensation immediately.
We’re standing by to begin your free consultation. So contact us (954) 633-8270 to start a free case review.
