With intersections being where two or more roads cross each other, collision accidents in these locations represent a large percentage of motor vehicle accidents in Toronto. And with drivers often turning left, crossing over, or turning right at these intersections, there is a greater opportunity for collision accidents to occur. Continue reading to learn the common causes of intersection collisions and how an experienced Toronto auto accident lawyer of Merricks Law Group, P.A. can aid you in the unfortunate event that you are involved in one.
What are the common causes of intersection collisions in Toronto?
It is on a rare occasion that intersection collisions are caused by a faulty traffic control device or another external factor (i.e., mechanical issue with the motor vehicle involved). More often than not, just like most types of motor vehicle accidents, intersection collision accidents are caused by the actions of a negligent driver. Some examples read as follows:
- The driver practiced inadequate surveillance when crossing the intersection.
- The driver had false assumptions about the other driver’s actions when crossing the intersection.
- The driver had a misjudgment of a gap or the other driver’s speed when crossing the intersection.
- The driver was distracted by texting, navigating a GPS, etc., when crossing the intersection.
- The driver is speeding when crossing the intersection.
- The driver turned left or right at the intersection with an obstructed view.
- The driver made an illegal maneuver at the intersection.
It is important to state that claims by the negligent driver that they did not see the other vehicle or that it “came out of nowhere” are not valid excuses for causing an intersection collision accident to occur. On the contrary, the Toronto court will likely look poorly at the negligent driver who attempts to use these defenses.
What should I do if I am involved in an intersection collision?
Intersection collisions are either in the form of a head-on or side-impact collision. Regardless, they often result in serious injuries due to the force of the vehicles involved alone. Such injuries may include the following:
- Brain injury.
- Spinal cord injury (i.e., paraplegia or quadriplegia).
- Serious fractures (i.e., legs or lower body).
That said, if you are suffering from injuries and damages due to an intersection collision that was of no fault of your own, you are eligible to file a personal injury claim. So, you should follow the below procedure:
- Call 911 so that a police report can be conducted.
- Take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and the hazards that contributed to your accident.
- Exchange contact information with the other driver and any witnesses.
- Seek medical treatment at the scene and follow-up appointments so that medical documentation can be recorded.
- Contact a skilled Ontario personal injury lawyer before the statute of limitations, which is two years from your accident.
Contact Our Experienced Toronto Personal Injury Firm
If you have been injured in an accident due to no fault of your own, contact a Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer at Merricks Law Group today.
