Failure to Yield to Oncoming Traffic
Under the laws of South Carolina, there are a number of different situations in which a driver is required to yield right of way to another vehicle. When a driver fails to yield right of way, it may result in a traffic violation or worse–a collision. Any collision where failure to yield right of way to another vehicle was a factor may be referred to as a “failure-to-yield” accident.
An accident occurring from a failure to yield right of way can occur under a number of different scenarios, including the following:
- Failing to stop at an intersection with a stop sign, yield sign or red light
- Turning left in front of oncoming traffic
- Failing to stop for an emergency vehicle
- Failing to yield to a bicycle or pedestrian who has rightofway
- Failing to stop or slow down at a flashing yellow light or stop at a flashing red light
- Pulling out from a side street or driveway into oncoming traffic
- Failure to yield to oncoming traffic when merging onto a freeway.
Failure-to-yield accidents are one of the more common types of accidents across the nation and in South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), failure to yield the right of way was a contributing factor in 20,651 collisions in 2009, making them the second most common type of accident that year. That same year, 77 people were fatally injured in failure-to-yield accidents in South Carolina, and another 11,632 people received non-fatal injuries.
Compensation in a Failure To Yield Right of Way Accident
Failure to yield right of way accidents can result in very serious, even life-threatening, injuries. As the victim of the accident, you could be entitled to compensation. The cost of medical treatment, the money spent on repairs to your vehicle and lost earnings that were caused by your inability to work after the accident are all examples of compensation that you could be entitled to. You could also be entitled to pain and suffering damages.
To get a better idea of what damages you may be entitled to as the victim of a failure to yield accident, consult with an experienced auto accident attorney as soon as possible after the collision.
For a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case, call The Louthian Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers today toll free at 803-592-6231. You can also fill out our confidential contact form online.
