Learn about Columbia intersection crashes, including common locations and causes and how liability is determined in personal injury claims
A vehicle crash can occur at any time, on any roadway, with intersectional roads posing especially high risks to drivers, bikers, and pedestrians. The reality is that some intersections in Columbia, South Carolina, can be downright treacherous.
In today’s era of the smartphone, even a brief distraction while driving can lead to serious consequences, including catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. Staying alert while driving, especially through dangerous intersections, can be taxing but necessary.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident at an intersection in Columbia due to someone else’s negligence, this guide will provide crucial information about where and why these crashes typically occur, how liability is proven, and your legal rights to compensation.
Which Columbia intersections are the most dangerous?
One of the city’s most dangerous intersections is Broad River Road, which sits near the Richland Library. In recent years, this area has seen an increase in crashes that result in serious injuries. The area of Broad River Road and I-26 is known for its rush hour traffic, which increases the risk of accidents. The I-20 and I-26 interchange ranks as even worse for drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Sadly, Columbia intersections have only gotten worse over the years. The times of day that see the most accidents are rush hour in the morning and early evening.
According to South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) 2021 data, there were 106 fatal collisions, resulting in 116 fatalities recorded at 4-way intersections across South Carolina. Additionally, T intersections witnessed a total of 16,496 collisions, resulting in 110 fatalities. Y intersections, on the other hand, accounted for 1,545 collisions, with 11 recorded fatalities in the state.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, as of 2023, other dangerous intersections in South Carolina include:
- U.S. 17 Bypass and S.C. 544 near Surfside Beach
- Ashley Phosphate Road and I-26
- I-26 at Exit 203 and College Park Road
- Highway 501 and Carolina Forest Boulevard
Intersection Crashes in the News
Unfortunately, intersection crashes have become common headlines for South Carolina news outlets. Below are just a few notable ones in the news recently:
- A South Carolina woman was killed mid-morning while crossing the intersection of S.C. Highway 193 (also known locally as Pickens Highway) and Wolf Stake Church Road near Seneca in April 2024. As the woman entered the intersection, a Honda SUV plowed into her Ford sedan’s driver’s side. Police said the woman died of blunt force injuries at the scene.
- A July 2024 crash was responsible for bringing down power lines and forcing a road closure in Greenville. No injuries were reported.
- A two-vehicle crash ended in tragedy for one person in May 2024 at the intersection of Dorchester Road and Lowell Drive in North Charleston. The crash forced authorities to close westbound lanes while the scene was investigated and cleared. Police confirmed one fatality, and two others were taken to area hospitals with injuries.
- Also in May 2024, a crash between two F-150 pickup trucks at the intersection of U.S. 178 (Fairview Road) and D.E. Clark Road ended in the death of one person and injuries sustained by three other people. The crash happened just outside Pelion in Lexington County.
- A third May 2024 crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV resulted in injuries. The crash happened at the intersection of Dorchester Road and Old Trolley Road in Summerville, S.C. No details about the motorcycle rider or vehicle operator were released by authorities.
Which intersection situation causes the most crashes?
Many factors contribute to intersection accidents in Columbia.
Reckless driving habits rank as one of the most common. This can include speeding, running red lights, tailgating, and failing to signal. Drivers who don’t take precautions in poor weather also pose a danger to those around them.
Distracted driving is a major factor in Columbia intersection accidents. Drivers who use their phones, eat, fiddle with controls, and perform other actions that shift their focus from the road account for many crashes in these areas.
Failure to yield the right of way is another reason why Columbia is known for its high number of intersection accidents. The driver who has the green light or the one traveling straight takes precedence. Pedestrians always have the right of way when crossing the street on the walk sign, at stop signs, and in crosswalks. When drivers don’t yield, it can have deadly results.
Left-turn accidents make up many intersection crashes. Drivers planning to turn left must yield to both oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Often, those who disregard this rule are impaired by alcohol or drugs, fatigued, or mistakenly think they can beat traffic.
Other common driver errors include:
- Side-swiping other vehicles while changing lanes
- Running red lights or stop signs, which often lead to T-bone crashes
- Stopping suddenly to avoid running a red light, leading to a rear-end collision
- Trying to avoid an oncoming vehicle that has veered into the wrong lane
In addition to the above driver errors, obstacles in the road from construction projects, poorly maintained roads, and mechanical defects are other common causes of these crashes.
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What are the potential injuries from intersection crashes?
Intersection collisions often leave victims grappling with injuries ranging from moderate to severe, including:
- Neck injuries. In less severe instances, whiplash and neck injuries frequently occur. These injuries manifest when the head is abruptly thrust forward and backward or sideways upon impact, leading to pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and headaches.
- Broken bones. Musculoskeletal injuries like fractures are other common outcomes of intersection crashes, typically affecting areas such as the arms, ribs, and facial bones. While simple fractures may be manageable and heal with time, compound fractures often necessitate surgical intervention and extensive rehabilitation.
- Head injuries. In cases where individuals strike their heads during the collision, they may endure head trauma or a concussion, potentially escalating to traumatic brain injury. Although categorized as “mild” injuries, concussions should not be dismissed lightly due to their potential to exacerbate.
- Back injuries. Spinal cord injuries are also prevalent among intersection accident victims. While typically associated with rear-end collisions, intersection accidents can result in back injuries like dislodged discs, fractured vertebrae, and other spinal traumas. In severe cases, victims may experience paralysis as a devastating consequence.
What to do after an intersection accident in Columbia
If you’re involved in an intersection crash in Columbia, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your health as well as your right to compensation. Here’s what you need to do:
- First and foremost, it’s essential to alert the authorities and report the accident. A police report holds significant importance for insurance claims and legal proceedings, serving as a vital tool in establishing the facts surrounding the crash.
- Following the initial report, if physically capable, documenting the accident scene is imperative. Every pertinent detail should be captured through photographs, including but not limited to skid marks, damage to vehicles, structures, and traffic signs, as well as any visible injuries sustained and prevailing weather or road conditions. Additionally, gathering contact information from witnesses is crucial. Inform them of the potential need for written statements or, if feasible, record their accounts using a mobile phone.
- Seeking immediate medical attention upon leaving the scene is paramount. Even if you’re feeling unharmed, undergoing a thorough examination by a medical professional is essential, as injuries with delayed symptoms or internal trauma may manifest later. Medical records serve as vital documentation of injuries, bolstering potential personal injury claims.
- Promptly notifying your insurance company about the accident is also advisable. Furnishing them with initial details is essential, but exercise caution when providing detailed statements without consulting legal counsel, particularly in cases involving significant damage or potential injuries.
- Finally, in instances of serious injuries or disputed liability, engaging the services of a local Columbia car accident attorney is prudent to safeguard your rights. This proactive measure enhances the likelihood of a favorable case outcome while ensuring comprehensive legal representation throughout the process.
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Who’s at fault in an intersection accident?
Determining who’s at fault and responsible for an intersection crash can be difficult but not impossible.
Leading causes of an intersection accident include driver errors like running red lights, speeding, or failing to yield the right-of-way. Investigating authorities will document this information and add it to their police report.
Police will also speak with both drivers and any witnesses at the scene and document any physical evidence and damage to each vehicle involved, which is crucial for proving fault in any personal injury claim.
In South Carolina, per the Code of Laws Section 56-5-1290, police reports are not allowed in court to prove operator fault in a crash when an impacted party is seeking compensation. However, law officers are allowed to talk about their reports and findings while testifying.
South Carolina is an at-fault state, which means the driver found responsible for the crash can be held liable for costs associated with the crash. As long as it’s determined that you are less than 51% responsible for the crash, you can seek compensation for damages.
But what if both parties are partially to blame for the accident?
When determining fault in a personal injury lawsuit in South Carolina, judges use a modified comparative fault rule, which allows fault to be distributed among the parties according to their degree of negligence.
For example, let’s say you’re in an intersection accident with another driver who is found to be 70% at fault for running a red light, but you’re found to be 30% at fault for speeding. In this case, your compensation would be adjusted based on your level of fault. So, if you would have been awarded $100,000 in damages, your final award would be $70,000 (100,000 minus 30%).
When fault is unclear in an intersection accident, it’s crucial to hire an attorney to help gather evidence and minimize your liability. An experienced lawyer can thoroughly investigate the accident, collect necessary documentation, and negotiate on your behalf to ensure a fair outcome.
The uninsured driver dilemma
Unfortunately, some accidents involve uninsured drivers. For this reason, South Carolina requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage with their auto insurance policies. This allows you to be compensated for medical expenses and property damage caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.
However, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs can quickly add up, leaving victims in dire situations even when they have uninsured motorist coverage. In such cases, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you determine the financial status of the at-fault driver and understand legal options.
Looking for the best Columbia car accident attorney to help with your intersection accident claim?
Accidents at intersections often result in substantial injuries and escalating medical expenses, which can make the road to recovery seem daunting. By familiarizing yourself with your legal rights and consulting with a local attorney experienced in handling such claims, you can regain control of the situation and move forward with confidence.
At Chappell, Chappell & Newman, our experienced Columbia personal injury lawyers fight each day for our clients. With a vast knowledge of South Carolina car accident laws and a history of successfully proving liability, we’re dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve after an intersection accident.
Our team understands the complexities of these cases and is committed to advocating for your rights, ensuring that you receive the financial support needed for your recovery.
If you or a loved one was involved in an intersection crash, contact our office today to find out how we can help maximize your claim by scheduling a free consultation.