Car accidents occur every single day across California. Millions of collisions happen nationwide every year. Many of these accidents happen in fast-growing urban regions like San Diego. Although many crashes are minor, every collision raises one critical question for victims and insurance companies.
Understanding how fault is determined in common accident scenarios can help you protect your rights. This article examines several common crash scenarios observed in San Diego and outlines how liability may be determined under California law.
Scenario 1: Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent accidents on San Diego roadways. A rear-end collision happens when a trailing vehicle strikes the back of a leading vehicle.
While many people think of these crashes as minor “fender benders,” they often cause significant injuries, including whiplash, back injuries, concussions, and soft tissue damage.
Who Is Usually at Fault?
In most cases, the rear driver is presumed at fault because California law requires all drivers to maintain a safe following distance and stay alert to changing road conditions.
However, the front driver may share fault or be solely responsible in situations such as:
- Suddenly stopping in the middle of the road for no apparent reason
- Slamming on the brakes in an act of “road rage”
- Reversing into the rear driver
- Having malfunctioning or broken brake lights
Rear-end collisions are often straightforward, but they can also become complicated quickly. For that reason, documenting the scene and speaking with an attorney is essential.
Common Places Rear-End Crashes Occur in San Diego
There are many places where rear-end accidents occur, including:
- Stop-and-go freeway corridors
- Stoplights along high-traffic areas like Miramar Road or Pacific Highway
- Parking garages and crowded retail centers
- Neighborhood intersections, when one driver stops to yield to pedestrians
Even what seems like a minor crash can cause injuries that appear days later. Always get medical attention and legal advice as soon as possible.
Scenario 2: Running a Red Light or Stop Sign
Intersections are among the most dangerous parts of San Diego roadways. Running a red light often results in T-bone crashes, which can be catastrophic.
Who Is Typically at Fault?
The driver who ignores a red light or stop sign is usually liable. These crashes tend to be severe because the sides of vehicles offer less protection for passengers, and victims have little time to avoid impact.
Why Do San Diego Drivers Run Red Lights?
Common causes include:
- Attempting to beat a yellow light
- Distracted driving (especially phone use)
- Driving under the influence
- Fatigue
- Speeding through large multi-lane intersections
Victims often suffer serious injuries, including fractures, internal trauma, and head injuries. When a driver violates a traffic signal, liability is usually clear – but gathering evidence quickly (such as traffic camera footage) can make or break the case.
Scenario 3: Unsafe Left Turns
Left-turn collisions frequently occur when a driver attempts to turn across oncoming traffic without a protected green arrow. San Diego intersections are common sites for these crashes.
Determining Fault in Left-Turn Crashes
California law requires left-turning drivers to yield to oncoming traffic unless they have a green turning arrow. When a driver misjudges speed, distance, or traffic flow, they may be found at fault.
However, the oncoming driver may share responsibility if evidence shows:
- They were speeding significantly
- They ran a red light
- They were distracted or impaired
Left-turn cases often hinge on witness testimony, skid marks, crash reconstruction, and video footage, making prompt legal action critical.
How a Skilled San Diego Car Accident Lawyer Determines Fault
Attempting to determine fault on your own can put your rights at risk. Insurance adjusters may pressure you, twist your words, or deny your valid injuries. Having an experienced attorney on your side protects you from these tactics.
Most skilled attorneys will attempt to determine fault by:
- Interviewing witnesses
- Reviewing police reports
- Gathering video footage from intersections, businesses, or dashcams
- Working with accident reconstruction experts
- Examining vehicle damage and skid marks
- Investigating traffic light sequencing and road conditions
- Challenging inaccurate insurance company assumptions
California is a comparative negligence state, meaning your compensation can be reduced if the insurer convinces a court that you were partially responsible. With a skilled attorney, you can prevent that from happening.
Contact the San Diego Car Accident Attorneys at Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
A car crash can leave you facing painful injuries, medical bills, lost income, and overwhelming stress. You deserve an advocate who understands both the legal and personal challenges ahead.
If you were injured in a San Diego car accident, Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers can help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options under California law.
