Intersection accidents are common in Alabama.
Many of these happen because drivers are unaware of how they should safely proceed when other vehicles are in the intersection and there is no signal or stop sign.
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the Alabama right-of-way laws, so you aren’t the cause of a collision.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in an intersection accident, you have legal rights.
Contact the skilled Birmingham car accident lawyers at Fob James Law Firm today to discuss how to pursue compensation for your damages.
What Are the Alabama Right-of-Way Laws?
When you reach an intersection, it’s crucial to know your rights and obligations for the town or city you are driving in.
In general, some of the most important rules to remember include the following:
- If you encounter an emergency vehicle on the road, they always have the right of way;
- Vehicles that are turning from a driveway or a private road need to yield to any vehicles already on the public road;
- When two vehicles reach an intersection without any stop signs, the vehicle to the right is the one with the right of way;
- If you see someone walking with a guide dog or a blind person carrying a red-tipped cane, they also have the right of way; and
- If you have a yield sign and there is a pedestrian, the pedestrian is the one with the right of way.
Even in intersections with stop signs, right-of-way laws apply.
For example, if two vehicles reach respective stop signs simultaneously, the vehicle to the right will still have the right of way.
While these are the right-of-way rules, there’s no guarantee that everyone will obey them.
Being a defensive driver and using caution when approaching an intersection can help keep you safe.
Tips for Intersection Safety
Knowing the right-of-way laws when approaching an intersection is only one part of staying safe.
Always approach any intersection carefully and look out for other cars, especially in blind areas where it’s challenging to see approaching vehicles.
Even if you think you have the right of way, look in all directions and use your signal to let other drivers know what you are doing.
If the intersection has a stop sign, you should always stop.
When you stop, you should be behind the painted line if there is one present. Always stop for a few seconds and look in every direction before driving.
You still need to be careful when you reach an intersection with a traffic signal, even when your light is green.
When the light turns green, always look in every direction before proceeding through the intersection.
If you reach a yellow, slow down and use caution. If the light is flashing yellow, treat it like a yield sign.
Seek Legal Assistance From an Alabama Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a family member received injuries in an intersection collision caused by another party’s negligence, you could have the right to bring a personal injury claim.
Our experienced Birmingham car accident lawyers at Fob James Law Firm can help.
We have years of experience assisting Alabama clients with all their injury needs and have a record of success in recovering compensation.
Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to learn more about how we can assist you.
Fob James
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large regional firm for several years where he obtained awards for both individual and corporate clients, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society.