Failure to yield is one of the most common causes of accidents on the roads in Texas. Learn what the penalties are, and what you can do if you are hurt.
Texas is the second-largest state in the country in terms of both area and population. That means there are more roadways and highways here, as well as more people using them. Unfortunately, not everyone in the state drives safely while they are on the roads. Failing to yield is one of the top causes of car accidents in the state, and these crashes result in serious injuries. Law enforcement will issue a ticket that includes a fine when a driver fails to yield, and drivers can also be held liable for paying damages when they act negligently.
Right-of-Way Law in Texas
Under Texas law, all drivers are required to yield right-of-way to other motorists when in an intersection, or when they are approaching an intersection and crossing poses a hazard. The only exception to this is when drivers are otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer or a traffic control device, such as a stop sign. The rules surrounding roadways that are uncontrolled are a bit tricker for drivers to understand. According to the Transportation Code of the state, the most important right-of-way rules to remember are as follows:
- Drivers must yield if they are on a one or two-lane roadway and are trying to cross or turn onto a highway or road with three or more marked lanes.
- Drivers must yield when they are on an unpaved road and are turning onto or crossing a paved roadway.
- All drivers must yield at T junctions, roads which end at the intersection.
- All drivers must yield to traffic any time they are turning left.
- Drivers must yield to the driver on their right when at an all-way stop.
- Drivers must always yield to pedestrians.
When drivers do not follow these rules, they are considered negligent and can be held liable for paying damages for any injuries that result.
Holding Drivers Liable After They Fail to Yield
Car accidents in Texas are governed by tort law, which means accident victims can file a claim against the negligent or careless party after a crash. When filing a claim, the accident victim must file a claim with the insurance company that covers the negligent driver. Through a personal injury claim, accident victims can recover their medical expenses, lost income, and more.
It is important to know that the comparative negligence law in Texas will apply if you were partly at fault for the crash. For example, if you were speeding but another driver ignored a yield sign, you can be held partly liable for the accident. As long as you were not more than 50% at fault, you can still claim compensation but it will be reduced by your same percentage of fault.
Our Car Accident Lawyer in Edinburg Can Help You Claim Full Damages
If you have been hurt in a crash, our Edinburg car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo, PLLC, is here to help. Our seasoned attorney knows how to prove another driver was negligent, while shielding you from claims of fault so you recover the full settlement you deserve. Call us today at 956-318-3200 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.