Stop sign accidents in Lafayette, Louisiana, can have devastating consequences for drivers and passengers alike, often resulting in serious injuries and significant property damage. These preventable crashes typically occur when one driver fails to properly stop or yield the right of way at an intersection.
This guide examines how liability is determined in stop sign accidents, including the relevant traffic laws in Lafayette Parish and the essential evidence needed to establish fault in your case.
The experienced Lafayette car accident attorneys at Galloway Jefcoat have helped countless victims navigate the complex aftermath of stop sign collisions, turning wrong into right. We are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Stop Sign Laws in Louisiana?
State traffic regulations are designed to prevent collisions and maintain safe roadways throughout Lafayette and surrounding parishes.
- Complete Stop Required: Drivers must bring their vehicles to a full stop at the designated stop line. If there is no designated line, drivers must stop before entering the intersection. If there is a crosswalk, drivers should stop before entering the crosswalk. Rolling stops, also known as “Louisiana stops,” where drivers slow down but do not actually come to a complete stop, are illegal.
- Right-of-Way Rules: After coming to a complete stop, drivers must yield to any vehicles already in the intersection or approaching close enough to pose an immediate hazard.
- Four-Way Stop Signs: At four-way stops, vehicles must proceed according to the order in which they arrived at the intersection. If vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
- Crosswalk Compliance: When a crosswalk is present, drivers must stop before entering it.
Drivers are expected to know and follow Louisiana’s stop sign laws. Drivers who fail to adhere to state traffic laws can be held liable if their negligence leads to a crash in an intersection.
Who May Be Liable if Ignoring a Stop Sign Leads to a Crash in Lafayette?
In Lafayette stop sign accidents, liability often extends beyond just the driver who failed to stop. Our legal team at Galloway Jefcoat carefully investigates each case to identify all parties who may share liability for your medical costs and other damages resulting from the crash. We work hard to discover all potential sources of compensation to help ensure you recover full and fair compensation.
Driver Who Ran the Stop Sign
The driver who disregarded the stop sign often bears primary responsibility for the crash. This includes cases of rolling stops, distracted driving through the traffic sign or deliberately running it in an attempt to beat cross traffic.
Commercial Vehicle Companies
If the at-fault driver was operating a delivery truck, company vehicle, or commercial transport within Lafayette Parish, their employer may share liability for the accident, especially if they failed to properly train the driver or maintain their vehicles.
Multiple Drivers
In complex scenarios at four-way stops, such as those common in Lafayette’s busy River Ranch or Downtown districts, multiple drivers may share fault if several vehicles attempted to proceed through the intersection simultaneously.
Government Entities
In rare cases, the City of Lafayette or parish authorities might share liability if a stop sign was obscured by overgrown vegetation. These entities may also be liable if signage was damaged or missing, or they failed to address a hazardous issue despite being notified.
Can I Be Held Partially Liable for a Stop Sign Car Accident in Lafayette?
Depending on the circumstances of the crash and your actions, you could be assessed with some liability for any resulting damage.
You should not admit to any fault for a car crash, either at the scene or later, such as when talking to the insurance company. You should speak with a knowledgeable attorney first.
At Galloway Jefcoat, we can investigate the crash, including all related evidence, to ensure you are not unfairly assessed with fault.
If you are partially to blame for the accident, you may still have a case. Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault rule. The good news is this means you may still be able to seek compensation for your damages even if you are 99 percent at fault. It is important to note, however, that your assigned fault will be deducted from any compensation you are awarded.
Need Legal Help After a Stop Sign Crash? Contact Our Trusted Lafayette Law Firm
At Galloway Jefcoat, our highly qualified legal team is dedicated to ensuring you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call 337-984-8020 today for a FREE consultation. We have staff available to take your call 24/7. We are here to help you.
Galloway Jefcoat. We turn wrong into right every day.
June 11, 2021