Stop Sign Car Accident Lawyers

What Are Right-Of-Way And Stop-Sign Accidents?

“Right of way” refers to the rules that dictate which vehicle should proceed first when two or more drivers arrive at an intersection. These rules are essential for maintaining order and safety on the roads. However, accidents can happen when drivers don’t follow or misunderstand these rules.

Rolling Stops

Some drivers don’t come to a full stop at the sign. Instead, they slow down, quickly check, and continue driving. This “rolling stop” can be unexpected for other drivers and lead to collisions.

Stopping Past the Line

A white line on the road near stop signs indicates where drivers should halt. But if a driver stops beyond this line, they might obstruct the intersection, causing potential accidents.

Four-Way Stop Confusion

At four-way stops, the first car to arrive goes first. If two cars reach the intersection simultaneously, the one on the right proceeds first. Misunderstandings or impatience can result in both cars entering the intersection together.

Distracted Driving

Distractions, like checking a phone or adjusting the radio, can cause drivers to miss seeing the stop sign, leading to potential accidents.

Poor Visibility

Stop signs can sometimes be hidden by overgrown trees, faded from the weather, or displaced. If drivers can’t see the sign, they might inadvertently drive through the intersection.

Aggressive Driving

Impatient or aggressive drivers might try to rush through an intersection, ignoring the stop sign or intimidating other drivers to yield.

Being aware of these common issues can help drivers stay safe. However, if an accident does occur, it’s crucial to understand your rights and seek expert legal guidance.

What Are the Stop-Sign Laws in Houston?

Stop sign laws in Houston are created with the intent of safety first. These are some key areas of focus:

Complete Stop Requirement

According to the Texas Transportation Code § 544.010, every driver must come to a complete stop at a stop sign. This means the vehicle should be stationary, and rolling stops are not permitted.

Yielding the Right-of-Way

After stopping, the driver must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching so closely as to be an immediate hazard.

Stopping at a Clearly Marked Stop Line

If there is a clearly marked stop line, drivers must stop before reaching it. The driver should stop at the nearest crosswalk if there isn’t a stop line. In the absence of both, the driver should stop at the point nearest to the intersecting roadway.

Four-Way Stops

At intersections with stop signs at all corners (four-way stops), the vehicle that arrives first has the right-of-way. If vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle to the right goes first.

Power Outage at Traffic Lights

Intersects become particularly hazardous in the event of a power outage or malfunctioning traffic lights. In Houston, as in many places, if the traffic signal lights are not working, drivers are required to treat the intersection as a four-way stop. This means the first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way, and if vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle to the right goes first.

Emerging from Private Driveways or Alleys

When a vehicle emerges from a private driveway, alley, or building onto a public road, it’s essential to approach with caution. Even if there isn’t a stop sign, drivers in Houston are advised to stop and ensure the way is clear before proceeding. This is similar to the rules of a stop sign, ensuring that pedestrians on sidewalks or vehicles on the main road have the right of way.

Violating stop sign laws can result in fines, points on a driver’s license, and increased insurance rates. In some cases, if the violation leads to an accident, the driver can also be held liable for damages.

Ultimately, Texas law emphasizes the importance of adhering to stop sign regulations to ensure the safety of all road users. It’s not just about avoiding penalties — it’s about protecting lives and reducing the risk of accidents on the road.

What Common Stop-Sign Accidents Happen in Houston?

Stop sign accidents in Houston can occur as a result of aggressive driving or reckless driving. Distracted driving is also often a culprit. The reality is — with its sprawling urban landscape and bustling traffic — Houston witnesses a variety of stop sign accidents. While the city’s vastness offers many conveniences, it also challenges drivers, especially at stop signs. Here are some common stop sign accidents that frequently occur in Houston:

• Rolling Stops. Drivers slow down but don’t come to a complete stop, leading to potential collisions.
• Distracted Driving. Texting, adjusting the radio, or other distractions can cause drivers to miss or ignore stop signs.
• Failure to Yield. After stopping, drivers might not yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the intersection.
• Rushing Through Intersections. Impatient drivers might speed through without stopping, especially during off-peak hours.
• Poor Visibility. Overgrown trees, faded signs, or other obstructions can make stop signs less visible.
• Stopping Past the Line. Drivers stop beyond the clearly marked line, obstructing the view or path of other vehicles.
• Four-way Stop Confusion. Misunderstandings about who arrived first or which vehicle has the right-of-way can lead to collisions.
• Aggressive Driving. Tailgating, honking, or intimidating other drivers can lead to rushed decisions at stop signs.
• Driving Under the Influence. Alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and reaction times, leading to stop sign violations.
• Misjudging Speed of Oncoming Vehicles. Drivers might think they have enough time to cross, leading to side-impact collisions.
• Pedestrian Crossings. Drivers might not notice or yield to pedestrians crossing at stop sign intersections.
• Bicyclists and Motorcyclists. These road users might be overlooked or their speed misjudged by drivers at stop signs.
• Weather Conditions. Rain, fog, or other adverse weather can reduce visibility and traction, leading to accidents.
• Faulty Brake Systems. Mechanical failures can prevent a vehicle from stopping in time.
• Unfamiliarity with the Area. Tourists or new residents might not be aware of all stop sign locations, leading to sudden stops or running the sign.

Drivers need to be extra cautious at stop signs, especially in a city as dynamic as Houston. Being aware of these common issues can help prevent accidents and ensure road safety.

How Can Johnson Garcia Help if You’ve Been Involved in a Stop-Sign Car Accident?

Stop sign accidents might seem trivial to some, like a minor hiccup on the road. But those involved know it’s far from a simple fender bender. The sudden jolt, the sound of crunching metal, the aftermath of dealing with injuries and trauma — it’s a lot more than just a “small accident.” And while many might brush it off, thinking it’s not worth the legal hassle, the reality is that these accidents can have lasting consequences.

Enter Johnson Garcia. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve seen it all. We understand that behind every accident statistic is real people with real concerns. Our team dives deep, peeling back the layers of every case and uncovering details that others might overlook. Why? Because in the world of traffic laws, understanding the nuances of stop sign regulations can be the difference between a successful claim and a missed opportunity.

But here’s the thing — we’re not just about building a case. We’re about building a relationship with you. We’re in it for the long haul, ready to stand by your side, even if it means going to trial. We’re not intimidated by big insurance companies and won’t let them push you around.

So, if you’re sitting there, thinking your stop sign accident is too small for legal action, think again. With Johnson Garcia, you’re not just another case number — you’re family. And we fight for our family.

Want us to get to work for you? Call us at 832-844-6700 today or reach out online.