Columbia Intersection Crash Lawyer
Intersections are among the most dangerous places on Columbia’s roads. With vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists all converging, even a moment of distraction or negligence can lead to devastating accidents. Victims of intersection crashes often face serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and complex insurance disputes.
At Stewart Law Offices, our Car accident lawyers in Columbia, SC understand the unique challenges of intersection accident claims and fight to hold negligent drivers accountable for the harm they cause.
Why Columbia Intersections Are So Dangerous
Intersections create multiple conflict points where vehicle paths cross. Each conflict point represents a potential crash location. According to the Federal Highway Administration, roughly one-quarter of traffic fatalities and about one-half of all traffic injuries in the United States occur at intersections. This disproportionate crash rate makes intersection safety a critical priority for both state and federal transportation officials.
Research by the Federal Highway Administration shows that more than 50 percent of combined fatal and injury crashes occur at or near intersections.
Common causes of Columbia Intersection Crashes
Common causes of intersection crashes in Columbia include:
- Red Light Violations: Drivers who enter intersections after the light has turned red often attempt to beat the signal change.
- Left-Turn Errors: Under South Carolina law, drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming traffic. Failure to yield when turning left is one of the leading causes of intersection crashes.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, adjusting controls, or otherwise not paying attention to traffic signals
- Failure to Yield: Not respecting right-of-way rules at stop signs and traffic lights
- Speed-Related Factors: Driving too fast to stop safely when the lights change
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment reduces reaction time and judgment
- Obscured Vision: Poor visibility due to weather, sun glare, or obstructed sight lines
Common Injuries in Intersection Crashes
Intersection crashes, especially side-impact (T-Bone) collisions, result in “high-velocity” injuries. Modern cars have crumple zones in the front and back, but your door offers very little protection.
We frequently represent clients suffering from:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Caused when your head strikes the side window or B-pillar during the violent sideways whip of a crash.
- Pelvic & Rib Fractures: Common in T-bone crashes where the impact force is direct.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Resulting in partial or total paralysis.
- Whiplash & Soft Tissue Damage: The violent “spin” of a car after impact shreds muscles and ligaments.
Common High-Risk Intersections in Columbia
Intersections with high-volume merging traffic, limited visibility, frequent red-light running, complex turn lanes, and major commercial entrances tend to develop crash patterns, increasing accident risk.
Columbia roadways where higher crash activity is often reported include busy crossings near:
- Two Notch Road (US-1) through dense business zones
- Broad River Road (US-176) approaching I-20 or I-126
- Devine Street and Harden Street near Five Points
- Forest Drive near major retail entrances
- North Main Street near business corridors and neighborhoods
These locations may include multiple lanes, pedestrian traffic, and drivers unfamiliar with the area, increasing collision risks even at lower speeds.
Common Injuries in Intersection Accidents
Intersection accidents often involve high-impact collisions that strike vehicles from the side, where occupants have minimal protection. Unlike T-bone collisions that involve direct side impacts, intersection crashes can also include angle collisions, head-on crashes, and sideswipes. The force of these impacts frequently results in:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal organ injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Severe whiplash
- Permanent disabilities
South Carolina Laws Affecting Intersection Crash Claims
In South Carolina, victims of car accidents typically have 3 years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, taking immediate action to preserve evidence is critical to building a strong case.
Steps to Take After an Intersection Crash:
- Call 911: A police report is essential for documenting the crash. Without it, insurance claims become more difficult to prove.
- Secure Witnesses: Obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the collision, as their testimony may be crucial in establishing fault.
- Photograph the Scene: Take pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and the overall accident scene.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get examined by a medical professional. Some injuries have delayed symptoms.
- Document Everything: Keep records of medical treatment, repair estimates, missed work, and all expenses related to the crash.
- Avoid Recorded Statements: Do not give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
Establishing Liability in Intersection Crashes
Determining fault in intersection crashes often involves conflicting statements from drivers. When both drivers claim they had the right-of-way, establishing liability requires independent evidence. Insurance companies may dispute claims when police reports are inconclusive.
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if a victim is found 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover compensation. This makes thorough evidence collection essential.
Determining Fault in Intersection Accident Cases
South Carolina follows an at-fault system for motor vehicle crashes. The driver whose negligence caused the accident is financially responsible for the resulting damages. However, proving fault in intersection cases requires a thorough investigation.
Critical Evidence in Intersection Claims
A legal team gathers multiple types of evidence to establish liability:
- Traffic Signal Data: Many municipalities maintain logs showing signal phase timing. This data can prove exactly which light was red or green at the moment of impact.
- Surveillance Footage: Cameras from nearby businesses, traffic signals, and ATMs often capture intersection crashes. We act quickly to secure this footage before it’s deleted.
- Witness Statements: Independent witnesses provide crucial accounts of who had the right of way and which driver violated traffic laws.
- Vehicle Event Data Recorders: Modern vehicles contain “black boxes” that record speed, braking, and other data in the seconds before a crash. This information can prove whether a driver attempted to stop or accelerated through a red light.
- Police Reports: Officers who respond to intersection crashes document the scene, interview drivers, and often issue citations to the at-fault party. While police reports don’t determine legal liability, they provide important evidence for your claim.
Recovering Compensation for Your Losses
Victims of intersection crashes may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, ongoing care, and future medical needs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time away from work during recovery and loss of earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to the same occupation.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement costs, plus diminished value if the vehicle’s worth is reduced after repairs.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence, reckless driving, or DUI, additional damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault driver.
In cases involving commercial vehicles like rideshare services (Uber or Lyft), additional insurance coverage may be available through the company’s policy.
Visit Our Intersection Crash Lawyer in Columbia
Contact Our Columbia Intersection Crash Lawyer
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an intersection accident in Columbia, contact Stewart Law Offices today. Our experienced car accident lawyers provide free consultations and fight aggressively to protect your rights.
For over 30 years, Stewart Law Offices has fought for injury victims across South Carolina. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for clients injured in intersection accidents and other crashes involving negligent drivers. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call, and we come to you if your injuries make travel difficult.