Intersection Accidents in Syracuse: Who’s Liable and How to Seek Compensation

Accidents at intersections are among the most common and dangerous types of car crashes. In Syracuse, intersections like State Route 290 and Grant Boulevard or W. Fayette Street and S. West Street are known for frequent collisions.

Crashes at these intersections are often serious, involving multiple vehicles from different directions. Depending on the specific circumstances of the accident, one or more drivers may share responsibility.

If you’ve been injured in an intersection accident in Syracuse, find out how liability works and how a Syracuse car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation.

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents

According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), roughly 1 in 4 fatalities and half of all traffic injuries nationwide are attributed to intersections. Some of the most common causes of these crashes include:

• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: A driver running a red light or stop sign can easily collide with vehicles that have the right of way.

• Failing to Yield When Turning Left: Failing to yield to oncoming traffic can lead to a dangerous T-bone collision.

• Distracted Driving: Distractions like texting or using the infotainment system can cause drivers to miss critical signals, increasing the risk of colliding with another vehicle or a pedestrian.

• Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds reduces reaction time and increases braking distance, leading to a higher risk of severe injuries in a crash.

How to Determine Liability in Intersection Accidents

Figuring out who is responsible for an intersection crash isn’t always straightforward. Depending on the details of the accident, one or more drivers may share responsibility for the collision and resulting injuries. Several factors come into play when assessing responsibility for an intersection crash, including:

• Traffic Signals and Right-of-Way Rules: The intersection layout, traffic signals, and relevant laws determine which drivers have the right of way. For example, drivers turning left must yield to oncoming traffic.

• Accident Scene Evidence: Skid marks, vehicle damage, and debris location can help accident reconstruction experts determine how the crash occurred and which vehicles were most likely responsible.

• Police Reports: Officers responding to the scene will document their findings, issue citations, and provide a professional assessment of who may be responsible.

• Eyewitness Testimonies: Witness statements can clarify what happened, especially in cases where drivers provide conflicting accounts.

• Traffic Camera Footage: Video evidence from traffic cameras or nearby surveillance systems can provide important evidence clarifying which drivers acted negligently.

Seeking Compensation After an Intersection Crash

You have the right to pursue compensation if you’ve been injured in an intersection accident. Because New York is a no-fault state, your first source of coverage is your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which all drivers are required to carry.

To recover damages, you must report the accident to your insurer. With basic no-fault coverage, you may receive compensation for medical expenses, up to 80% of lost wages, and other necessary costs, up to a combined total of $50,000. However, when insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts or when your damages exceed this amount, you need the assistance of a skilled Syracuse car accident lawyer.

Can I Sue the Other Driver for My Injuries?

New York law requires you to meet the “serious injury” threshold before starting a lawsuit. According to the law, you can only sue if your injuries resulted in:

• A substantial disability preventing daily activities for at least 90 days within the first 180 days after the accident
• Significant disfigurement
• Broken bones
• Significant limitation or permanent loss of the use of an organ, limb, or other important body part
• Loss of a fetus
• Dismemberment
• Death

New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be shared between multiple parties. The amount you can recover will be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for your injuries, your compensation payout may be reduced by 20%.

Our experienced Syracuse car accident lawyers can help determine whether you have the legal right to sue. If you have a case, your lawyer can help you gather the evidence needed to establish which parties are responsible while minimizing your percentage of fault.

Contact a Syracuse Car Accident Lawyer After an Intersection Crash

Intersection accidents can result in serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and even long-term impacts on your earning ability. The experienced attorneys at Catalano Law can protect your rights while you focus on your recovery.

We’ll guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free case consultation to discuss your case.