Who Is at Fault in a Roundabout Accident?

There are an abundance of roundabouts in Las Vegas, NV, with the bulk of the confusing roadway enhancements lying in Summerlin, NV. It seems to add efficiency and less stop-and-go footwork than the traditional four-way stop. However, that’s only true when every driver understands how to use it correctly. If you’re new to the area and find yourself perplexed as to how you should properly use a roundabout, this article is for you.

Who is at fault in a roundabout car accident?

While it seems there are roundabouts on every corner in the Summerlin area alone, it seems as though very few drivers understand how to use them correctly. Unfortunately, drivers who are unfamiliar with this type of traffic system are more likely to hesitate mid-drive, become flustered, and cause a car crash.

If you are trying to determine who is at fault in a roundabout car accident, here are a few questions you should ask yourself to quickly determine fault.

Who had the right of way?

Like most motor vehicle accidents, you are more likely to have a successful injury claim if you were operating your vehicle as a right-of-way driver. In a roundabout, the person who is already in the flow of traffic has the right-of-way. All drivers who are attempting to enter the roundabout must stop and wait their turn before entering a roundabout. In other words, if someone is attempting to enter the circle before you reach their point of entry and an accident ensues, he or she is likely to be found liable for the accident.

Was the accident a rear-end collision?

In most cases, if a car is struck from behind, the car in the rear will be found liable for the accident. Roundabout accidents are no different. Following distances are drastically reduced in roundabout traffic systems, as cars are typically only a few feet away from each other. If the rear vehicle is speeding or not maintaining a safe traveling distance, it may be unable to stop in the event the front vehicle needs to brake suddenly.

Related: Is It Always Your Fault If You Rear End Someone?

Was someone switching lanes?

This is one of the few cases where the rear vehicle may have a valid injury claim. In multi-lane roundabouts, drivers should be fully aware of which lane they need to travel in to reach their destination–before they enter the roundabout. If they switch lanes suddenly because they realize their exit is sooner than anticipated, this could result in an accident and they will be found liable.

Injured in a roundabout car accident? Contact our law firm for a free consultation

Car accident victims who have been involved in a roundabout crash should make a conscious note to document and preserve the accident scene before they leave. Taking photos and video, gathering witness statements, and contacting the police if an injury has taken place are all great strategies to preserving evidence. After all, evidence is key if you wish to file a successful personal injury claim, and the clock for preserving this evidence starts as soon as a collision has occurred.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Las Vegas, NV, you need to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as quickly as possible. at any time for a free consultation by calling (702) 800-0988 or completing our online form. We are available to help you 24/7.

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