Failure-to-yield accidents are more common than you might think. These incidents occur when a driver does not give the right of way to another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist when they must.
Below are the common causes of these accidents and the potential injuries that may follow.
Common causes of failure to yield car accidents
You might be surprised by how often these accidents happen due to simple oversights or poor decisions. Frequent causes may include:
Distracted driving
When you are texting, eating or fiddling with the radio, you may not entirely focus on the road.
Misunderstanding right-of-way rules
If you are unsure who has the right of way at an intersection, you might make the wrong move.
Speeding
Going too fast means you may have less time to react to other vehicles or pedestrians.
Poor visibility
Severe weather, obstructed views or driving at night could make it harder to see other road users.
Impatience
Sometimes, drivers may make risky decisions in a hurry, like not waiting for a safe gap in traffic.
Potential injuries from failure to yield accidents
When these accidents occur, the consequences could be severe. You might experience:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Soft tissue damage
- Emotional trauma
More than showing courtesy, yielding is a crucial part of safe driving. Staying alert, following traffic rules, and being patient may significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a failure-to-yield car accident.
If you suffer from injuries following a car accident, consider consulting an attorney. They could help you understand your rights and the legal options available.