Claims for Accidents Caused by Rolling Through Stop Signs

A “California Stop” is when someone rolls through a stop sign instead of coming to a full stop. The maneuver is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous to other drivers and people in the crosswalks.

If you were injured by a driver who rolled through a stop sign and caused an accident, you may be able to file a claim for compensation.

Call our auto accident lawyers in Sacramento to discuss your claim during a free consultation to see how we may be able to help you pursue the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.

Dangers of Rolling Through Stop Signs

Many drivers might roll through stop signs because they are in a rush, or they might not realize that a four-way stop sign is a two-way stop where oncoming traffic has the right of way. In fact, most accidents involving drivers breezing through a stop sign are due to the latter mistake.

This may be even more prevalent in areas with a lot of intersections and pedestrian traffic. Some intersections might have four-way stops due to high volumes of traffic, while others may only be two-way stops. Drivers who fail to pay attention and come to a full stop may roll through a stop sign thinking they have the right of way.

People in crosswalks are the most vulnerable to drivers rolling through a stop sign, including children and bicyclists.

For example, a driver who rolls through a stop sign when making a right turn may not see a person in the crosswalk if he or she is looking left for oncoming traffic. The driver might think things are clear if there are no vehicles, but by the time he or she sees the pedestrian when making the turn it may be too late.

Consequences of Rolling Through a Stop Sign

In California, rolling through a stop sign is the equivalent of running through it, as the traffic code imposes specific rules about coming to a full stop at intersections where there is a stop sign.

Drivers found to be in violation of the rules can face fines of up to $238 plus applicable court fees. Multiple violations within a certain period can lead to license suspension.

Determining Liability for a Rolling Stop Accident

Liability for an accident caused by a driver who rolled through a stop sign is generally easy to determine since there is a traffic violation. However, proving a driver rolled through a stop sign may require a lot of evidence. Fortunately, our attorneys are prepared to help you build a strong case to prove another driver acted negligently and caused an accident.

Remember that calling the police after an accident is always a good idea, as the responding officer can file a police report. The police officer’s job is to determine fault for the crash by evaluating the available evidence at the scene of the crash.

The damage to the vehicles involved in the crash may also be helpful in determining fault if your vehicle crashed into a driver who rolled through a stop sign while you had the right of way.

If you were a pedestrian who was hit by a vehicle that failed to come to a full stop at the intersection, having statements from people who witnessed the collision may help prove you had the right of way.

What if I am Partially Responsible?

There are some situations where more than one party may be responsible for an accident when someone rolls through a stop sign, including situations when the injury victim may bear partial fault.

For example, a pedestrian may be partially at fault for a collision with a vehicle rolling through a stop sign if he or she failed to look for oncoming traffic before crossing the road.

Fortunately, California allows injury victims who bear partial fault to recover compensation.

Call an Experienced Attorney

Drivers who roll through stop signs and cause accidents may be financially liable for the victim’s damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were injured by a negligent driver, it may be in your best interest to discuss your legal options with an experienced attorney.

Our lawyers have decades of experience fighting for the rights of injury victims and holding liable insurance companies accountable. We offer a free consultation and do not charge you anything up front.

Let us fight for you. Call 916-777-7777.