What is Right of Way?

Right of way is a fundamental principle in traffic law, governing who has the legal right to proceed through intersections, crosswalks, and roadways. This concept applies to drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists alike. Right of way rules are designed to ensure the smooth and safe flow of traffic, but when these rules are ignored, accidents often occur. In Connecticut, as in other states, the failure to yield the right of way is a common cause of car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and bicycle accidents.

When someone disregards right of way rules, they are typically at fault for any resulting accident. These rules are covered in driver’s education courses and are considered basic knowledge for anyone using the road. If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by a right of way violation, you may be entitled to compensation. Bert McDowell Injury Law can help—contact us today at 475-231-3274.

Common Right of Way Violations

Right of way violations occur when someone fails to follow the established rules of the road. While any failure to yield can result in fault, some violations happen more frequently than others, including:

• Drivers making left turns who fail to yield to oncoming traffic.
• Vehicles pulling out of driveways or parking lots without yielding to passing traffic.
• Drivers attempting to proceed at an intersection when it is not their turn.
• Drivers overtaking or crowding out bicyclists traveling lawfully in a traffic lane.
• Pedestrians crossing streets illegally or without warning.

In these scenarios, the party who violates right of way rules is generally considered to be at fault. However, exceptions can occur, such as when the party with the right of way is speeding or driving unpredictably. Even in such cases, fault may be shared between the parties involved.

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way?

One of the most common misconceptions is that pedestrians always have the right of way. In Connecticut, pedestrians do have the right of way when crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks. However, they are also expected to follow traffic rules and wait for a safe break in traffic when crossing outside of designated areas.

Drivers should always exercise caution and slow down if a pedestrian appears to be stepping into the road, even if the pedestrian does not have the right of way. This can help reduce the risk of accidents. However, if a pedestrian crosses illegally or without warning, and an accident occurs, the pedestrian may bear legal responsibility for the incident.

Have You Been Injured in a Right of Way Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, pedestrian accident, or bicycle accident caused by someone failing to yield the right of way, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we specialize in helping injured victims in Connecticut get the justice and compensation they deserve.

Our attorneys understand how to navigate the complexities of Connecticut’s legal system, and we have the experience needed to advocate for you effectively in front of a jury or a judge.

We know that dealing with injuries can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. That’s why we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance on your next steps. Whether your case is resolved through a settlement or proceeds to a jury trial, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, workplace incident, or any other type of accident caused by negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 475-231-3274 to schedule your free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form to get started.

We take pride in serving clients across Connecticut and ensuring that their voices are heard in both settlement negotiations and in the courtroom. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.