Leading Reasons That Negligent Drivers Cause Roundabout Auto Crashes

A Busy RoundaboutRoundabouts are circular intersections where vehicles travel in one direction. They are increasingly popular and are designed to improve safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Unfortunately, some drivers do not understand how to drive correctly in a roundabout, or just simply fail to obey the rules and cause a collision.

Although vehicles travel at a slower speed in a roundabout, you could still suffer serious injuries in a car accident. Our skilled and compassionate legal team is here to file your claim and fight with the negligent driver’s insurance company for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Collisions in Traffic Circles

While roundabouts are designed to prevent accidents, negligent drivers continue to cause crashes in these intersections. Sideswipe and rear-end collisions are common. Reasons for these accidents include:

  • Speeding. Drivers are only supposed to drive at 20 miles per hour in the traffic circle. When they speed, they may not have sufficient time to stop to avoid causing a crash.
  • Stopping. Motorists should not stop once proceeding in the roundabout. Many rear-end collisions are caused by drivers who suddenly stop while traveling in the circle.
  • Failing to yield. Drivers must yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles that have the right of way in the roundabout. A crash is the likely consequence when they fail to yield the right of way.
  • Using the wrong lane. Some roundabouts are more than one lane. Some wrecks result when drivers fail to follow traffic signs that direct them to the proper lane.
  • Making unsafe changes. A motorist can sideswipe another vehicle if he suddenly tries to make a lane change and cuts off another driver. He can also cause a wreck if he fails to yield the right of way at exits and entrances to the roundabout.

Get the Legal Help You Need

If you were injured in a roundabout car accident, you cannot expect the negligent driver’s insurance company to treat you fairly. We are here to protect your legal rights and to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call our Norfolk office to schedule a free consultation to get started.