Important Traffic Laws You Might Not Know!

Did you know that drivers who don’t yield to others who have the right of way are one of the top causes of motor vehicle accidents in Edmonton? Whenever drivers encounter a yield sign, they must allow other vehicles that don’t face the yield sign the right of way, but what if there isn’t a yield sign available? Who proceeds first? Learn more about Alberta’s right-of-way traffic rules below! 

I Got There First!

The commonly known traffic principle of “I got there first!” does not apply in all situations. Only in 3 and 4-way controlled intersections does a vehicle have the right-of-way when they are the first vehicle to arrive at the stop sign. If you and another vehicle arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way (as the name suggests). However, it’s important to note that even if you have the right-of-way, you are still responsible for doing everything you can to avoid a collision.

But There Aren’t Any Signs! 

Intersections with no traffic lights or signs are called uncontrolled intersections, and they rely on drivers following the right of way to cross the intersection safely. The two most common types of uncontrolled intersections are four-way and T-intersections. No matter which type of uncontrolled intersection you’re approaching, it’s always recommended to reduce your speed to be able to stop your vehicle easily. In both uncontrolled four-way and T-intersections, the driver on the right always has the right-of-way. 

Important Intersection Reminders

In 2016, 1 out of 4 motor vehicle collisions was intersection-related, resulting in 7,623 injuries and 58 fatalities. Intersections can be dangerous, so it’s always best practice to be cautious when approaching them. Keep in mind the following reminders when approaching intersections:

• Parking lots have a lot of intersections without signals or signs – make sure you’re following the right-of-way rules.
• When turning left across the path of an approaching vehicle in an intersection, you cannot turn left until it’s safe to do so.
• All intersections have crosswalks, and whether they’re marked or unmarked, you must always stop for a pedestrian crossing.

What To Do If You or a Loved One Has Been Injured In an Intersection Accident?

Regardless of the accident you’ve just been in, nothing is more important than making sure that you and your loved one are safe. The first step you should take following a motor vehicle accident is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries feel and look minor, you must still visit your nearest ER or your family doctor as soon as possible.

Your medical provider will be able to thoroughly assess your injuries and ensure that you receive all relevant tests, including CT scans, X-rays and other diagnostic tests. Document any tests, results, damages and expenses resulting from your accident. They can be out-of-pocket expenses, lost days of work or even psychological trauma. Documenting your damages will help your personal injury lawyer fight for your rightful compensation.

After your accident, insurance companies are likely to contact you and obtain a statement from you. Before giving them any information, seek legal advice from a personal injury lawyer in Edmonton. Insurance companies don’t have your best interest at heart. In fact, in parking lot accidents, insurance companies often consider 50/50 fault for insurance claims, no matter who was originally at fault. Contact a personal injury lawyer in Edmonton to determine the best legal action you should take.

Personal Injury Lawyers in Edmonton

James H. Brown and Associates have represented hundreds of accident victims in Edmonton and across Alberta. With over 250 years of combined personal injury experience, we are proud to stand up for accident victims’ rights and fight for the compensation they deserve. 

Contact us today to book a free consultation with one of our award-winning personal injury lawyers in Edmonton!