Who Is At Fault in a Highway On-Ramp Collision?
On-ramp collisions happen when vehicles enter the highway and hit another car in the process. These accidents can range from small bumps to serious crashes. Typically, they occur during the process of merging onto the highway or exiting it and involve at least two vehicles.
If you’re involved in an on-ramp collision in Mississippi, it’s important to know your rights and how you can pursue compensation. Call Gardner Law Group at 228-436-6555 to set up a consultation now.
Reasons Behind On-Ramp Accidents
Several factors contribute to on-ramp accidents. One significant reason is the speed difference between cars already on the highway and those merging onto it. Misjudging this difference can lead to rear-end collisions or sideswipes. Driver distractions, like using a phone or adjusting the radio, can also cause accidents during the critical merging phase.
Additionally, failing to yield or signal properly when merging creates confusion and can lead to crashes. Some drivers may not adequately check their mirrors or blind spots before merging, which can result in a collision. Merging drivers need to adjust their speed to merge safely.
Another factor is aggressive driving. Some drivers may speed up to avoid letting merging cars in, while others may try to force their way onto the highway without enough space. These behaviors can escalate into dangerous situations quickly. Understanding these contributing factors can help drivers stay alert and cautious, making the roads safer for everyone.
Weather conditions also play a role. Rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and make the road slippery, increasing the chances of an accident. Additionally, not signaling or yielding properly when merging can create confusion and lead to crashes.
Quite a few accidents are the result of inexperience or a lack of understanding of Mississippi law. As a general rule, the vehicle already moving in a lane of traffic has the right of way. Anyone attempting to get into that lane must yield. This is true on most Mississippi highways, which means those entering the highway or trying to get into an exit lane must wait until it is clear to do so. However, you also have to speed up to enter safely and keep up with traffic—and that creates an issue if there’s no space to merge. This skill comes with time and practice.
Drivers need to be aware of these dynamics to better navigate on-ramps and reduce their risk of car accidents. This awareness includes paying attention to speed, staying focused, and being cautious in adverse weather conditions. By understanding these elements, drivers can make safer choices when entering or exiting the highway.
Figuring Out Who’s Responsible in an On-Ramp Crash
Determining who is responsible for an on-ramp crash can be complex, as it involves examining several elements. Traffic laws and right-of-way rules are crucial in this assessment. Typically, vehicles already on the highway have the right of way. Those merging are expected to adjust their speed and enter safely. However, if the highway driver is speeding or driving recklessly, they might share some of the blame.
This may also be the case if they have the opportunity to prevent an accident by backing off and allowing someone to merge but choose to plow ahead and hit the merging driver. While the merging driver may be at fault, the other driver still has an obligation to avoid a crash when it is reasonably possible to do so.
Sometimes, both drivers might be at fault. For instance, if the merging driver fails to yield and the highway driver is speeding, both could be held responsible. Law enforcement and insurance companies typically examine all these aspects, along with any available evidence, such as traffic camera footage or witness statements, to determine who is at fault.
Regardless, it’s important to know that the other party’s insurance company will do what they can to prove that you are at fault—even if you’re not. This is why it’s important to have an attorney advocating for you.
Reach Out to Gardner Law Group Today
When you’re ready to start your personal injury claim in Mississippi, the team at Gardner Law Group is here for you. Call our Pascagoula office at 228-762-6555, call our Biloxi office at 228-436-6555, or get in touch online.
