Stop Sign Injury Attorneys Serving San Benito

Exceptional Legal Representation You Can Trust in Your Community

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact that stop sign collision accidents can have on individuals and families in San Benito, TX. If you or your family member has been involved in an accident due to a stop sign violation, our experienced team of injury lawyers is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Our San Benito Stop Sign Accident Lawyers?

Stop sign accidents occur when a driver fails to yield the right of way at an intersection, leading to dangerous collisions. These accidents often result in serious injuries and property damage. If you or someone close to you has been involved in a stop sign accident, our legal team is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we offer:

• Decades of Experience: Our team has extensive experience handling stop sign accident cases and knows how to navigate the legal process to get you the best possible outcome.
• Personalized Legal Representation: We treat each client as an individual, tailoring our approach to meet your specific needs and goals.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We offer contingency-based representation, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.

What Are Stop Sign Accidents?

Stop sign accidents typically occur at intersections where one or both drivers fail to stop at the sign, resulting in a collision. These types of accidents often happen when:

• A driver runs a stop sign without yielding the right of way.
• A driver does not come to a complete stop at the intersection.
• Poor visibility at the intersection or improper placement of stop signs causes confusion.

These accidents can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, whiplash, and more. In many cases, the damages and injuries resulting from stop sign accidents can have long-lasting effects on victims.

Causes of Stop Sign Accidents in San Benito, Texas and Surrounding Areas

Stop sign accidents are a common occurrence in San Benito, Texas, as well as in nearby cities and towns like Harlingen, Brownsville, Los Fresnos, Bayview, and Santa Rosa. These accidents can result in serious injuries and property damage. Several factors contribute to stop sign violations in this region, and understanding these causes can help prevent future accidents.

1. Failure to Yield the Right of Way

In many stop sign accidents, drivers fail to yield the right of way, especially in busy intersections where multiple roads meet. This is particularly common in urban areas like Brownsville and Harlingen, where traffic may be heavy and stop signs are not always visible due to obstructions like trees, parked cars, or construction.

2. Distracted Driving

With the rise of smartphones and other distractions, drivers in San Benito and surrounding areas, including Los Fresnos and Bayview, may not notice stop signs or fail to come to a complete stop before proceeding through intersections. Texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car navigation systems can divert attention away from the road, increasing the likelihood of running a stop sign.

3. Speeding

Speeding is a significant cause of stop sign accidents in Harlingen and Santa Rosa, where drivers may be trying to get through intersections quickly. When drivers speed, they have less time to react and stop safely at a stop sign, which can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.

4. Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major factor in stop sign accidents. Areas like Brownsville and Harlingen have seen an increase in impaired driving, which can cause drivers to miss stop signs, fail to yield the right of way, or make dangerous maneuvers at intersections.

5. Poor Visibility

In San Benito and nearby towns, poor visibility due to weather conditions (fog, rain), nighttime driving, or obstructed stop signs can lead to stop sign accidents. Overgrown trees, unlit intersections, or poorly placed signs are common issues in more rural areas like Santa Rosa or Los Fresnos that contribute to these accidents.

6. Failure to Come to a Complete Stop

Sometimes drivers in a rush will roll through stop signs without fully stopping. This is a prevalent problem in San Benito and Bayview, especially in less busy intersections where drivers feel it’s safe to speed through without coming to a complete stop. This is commonly referred to as a “California Roll” in California, but it happens often in South Texas as well.

7. Confusion at Complex Intersections

In more urbanized areas like Brownsville, intersections can be confusing, especially those near highways or roads with heavy traffic. Drivers may misinterpret signs, or fail to recognize which lanes are required to stop. This confusion can lead to dangerous accidents, especially when stop signs are placed close to traffic lights or other confusing road markers.

8. Weather-Related Factors

Weather conditions in San Benito, Harlingen, and other surrounding areas like Los Fresnos can reduce visibility and make the road slick, increasing the chances of stop sign accidents. Heavy rain, fog, and high winds can make it difficult for drivers to see or stop in time when approaching an intersection.

Contact Us for Help With Your Stop Sign Accident in San Benito and Nearby Cities

If you or a loved one has been involved in a stop sign accident in San Benito, Harlingen, Brownsville, or surrounding areas like Los Fresnos, Bayview, or Santa Rosa, our San Benito stop sign accident lawyers are here to help. With years of experience serving the South Texas area, we understand the unique challenges of these accidents and are dedicated to helping victims get the compensation they deserve.

For a free consultation and case evaluation, call (956) 368-0000 today! Let us help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve.

Legal Liability and Responsibility for Stop Sign Accidents

When it comes to stop sign accidents, understanding legal liability and responsibility is crucial in determining who is at fault for the crash and how damages will be compensated. In Texas, including areas such as San Benito, Harlingen, and Brownsville, the driver who fails to yield the right of way is generally held responsible for any stop sign accident.

Stop sign accidents often occur because one driver either does not come to a complete stop at the intersection, or fails to yield the right of way to another driver, pedestrian, or cyclist who is legally entitled to go first. This can result in dangerous and sometimes life-threatening collisions. However, determining legal responsibility is not always as straightforward as it may seem, as various factors can influence who is at fault.

Who is at Fault in a Stop Sign Accident?

In general, Texas law and traffic regulations dictate that when a driver runs a stop sign or does not stop at an intersection when required, they are typically the one responsible for the accident. This is because the law requires drivers to stop fully at a stop sign and give the right of way to traffic on the crossroad or the vehicle that arrived first.

For example, if a driver traveling on a road with a stop sign does not come to a complete stop and collides with another vehicle that is properly yielding the right of way at an intersection, the driver who did not stop will typically be found at fault. Similarly, if a driver on the main road has the right of way but is struck by a car that runs a stop sign, the vehicle running the stop sign would generally be liable for the collision.

However, there are exceptions to this general rule, and in some cases, multiple factors may contribute to the accident. Let’s explore these factors further.

Common Causes of Stop Sign Accidents That Affect Liability

Failure to Yield the Right of Way

One of the most common causes of stop sign accidents is when a driver fails to yield the right of way at an intersection. Texas law clearly states that vehicles must come to a full stop at stop signs and yield to any other vehicles or pedestrians who have the right of way. When drivers disregard these rules, accidents often occur, and they are typically considered the responsible party for the crash.

Distracted Drivers

Another common cause of stop sign accidents is distracted driving. If a driver is texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car technology, they may fail to notice the stop sign or fail to stop in time. Drivers may also be distracted by other passengers, looking for an address, or even using a GPS. Distracted driving reduces a driver’s ability to observe and react to their surroundings, making it more likely for them to miss the stop sign and cause an accident.

Speeding

Excessive Speeds is another major factor in stop sign accidents. When drivers approach intersections at high speeds, they may not have sufficient time to react to the stop sign or may be unable to stop their vehicle in time before entering the intersection. Speeding can also reduce the driver’s ability to yield the right of way properly, further increasing the risk of a collision.

Driving While Intoxicated

Impaired Driving Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to follow traffic rules. In cases where a driver runs a stop sign due to impairment, the impaired driver is almost always deemed liable for the accident. DUI accidents involving stop signs often result in severe injuries, as impaired drivers may fail to notice the stop sign or misjudge the distance or speed needed to safely stop.

Road Conditions and Visibility Issues

Poor visibility caused by inclement weather, overgrown vegetation, or inadequate signage can contribute to stop sign accidents. In some cases, the failure of a government agency or municipality to maintain clear stop signs or traffic signals could be considered contributory negligence, affecting the overall liability for the accident. In such cases, it may be possible to hold the local government accountable for their failure to maintain roadways and signage properly.

Lack Of Proper Sleep

Fatigue or drowsy driving is another factor that can lead to stop sign accidents. Drivers who are overly tired may fail to see the stop sign or may not react in time to stop safely. As a result, they may roll through the stop sign or fail to yield to the proper vehicles or pedestrians, causing a collision.

Responsibility in Stop Sign Accidents

Although in most cases the driver who runs the stop sign is considered at fault, there are instances where shared responsibility may apply. For example, both drivers may be partially responsible for the accident, or one party may have contributed to the incident through negligence or reckless driving.

Some examples of shared liability in stop sign accidents include:

• T-bone Collisions: In a T-bone collision, one vehicle runs a stop sign, but the other vehicle may also be speeding or failing to yield their right of way. This shared responsibility may affect the damages awarded in a personal injury claim.
• Defective Traffic Signs: In rare cases, a stop sign may be malfunctioning or poorly placed. If the local government or municipality is at fault for an improperly placed or defective sign, they may bear part of the liability.

Law That Applies To Stop Sign Accidents In Texas: Texas Transportation Code Reference

When it comes to stop sign accidents in San Benito, Brownsville, Harlingen, or any other city in Texas, the legal liability and responsibility are primarily governed by the Texas Transportation Code. This set of laws outlines the rules that govern how drivers should behave at intersections, including stop signs, and specifies who is responsible when these rules are violated.

Texas Transportation Code: Stop Sign Regulations

The primary section of the Texas Transportation Code that applies to stop sign accidents is Section 544.010, titled “Stop Signs and Yield Signs.” This section sets forth the legal requirements for drivers approaching stop signs and the penalties for failing to adhere to these regulations.

Section 544.010(a) states:

• “A driver approaching a stop sign at an intersection shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, or, if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection.”

This law requires drivers to come to a complete stop when approaching a stop sign and ensure that they do not proceed until they have yielded the right of way to any other vehicles or pedestrians that have the right to proceed through the intersection.

Section 544.010(b) further clarifies the responsibilities at intersections with stop signs, stating:

• “If the intersection is controlled by a stop sign, the driver shall yield the right of way to any vehicle that has entered the intersection from another highway or that is approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard.”

This means that the driver who does not have the right of way is responsible for the accident if they fail to yield to another vehicle or pedestrian legally occupying or approaching the intersection.

Legal Responsibility in Stop Sign Accidents in Texas

According to Section 544.010, if a driver fails to stop at a stop sign or fails to yield the right of way, they will generally be found legally responsible for any resulting accident. In such cases, the violating driver is typically deemed at fault, and they may be liable for damages and injuries caused to other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians involved in the collision.

However, there are situations in which shared responsibility or comparative negligence could come into play. For example, if both drivers are found to have violated traffic laws (e.g., one driver runs the stop sign while the other is speeding), liability may be divided based on each party’s contribution to the accident.

Penalties for Running a Stop Sign in Texas

If a driver fails to stop at a stop sign, the penalties under Section 544.010(c) of the Texas Transportation Code include:

• A fine up to $200 for violating stop sign laws.
• In some cases, additional penalties or points may be added to the driver’s driving record.

However, beyond the fines, liability for damages in a stop sign accident is a civil issue, and those affected by the car crash (whether passengers, other drivers, or pedestrians) may file personal injury claims to seek monetary compensation.

Why Legal Experiance is Important for Stop Sign Accidents in San Benito and Surrounding Areas

Understanding the Texas Transportation Code and how it applies to your specific case can make all the difference in determining the outcome of your personal injury claim. If you’ve been involved in a stop sign accident in San Benito, Brownsville, Harlingen, or anywhere in Cameron County, it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who is familiar with Texas traffic laws and regulations.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we can help you navigate the complexities of Texas law, including Section 544.010 of the Texas Transportation Code, to ensure that your rights are fully protected. Our team is ready to assist you with investigating the details of your case, gathering evidence, and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

For a free consultation and to discuss your case, call us at (956) 368-0000 today. Let us fight for the justice you deserve!

Comparative Fault in Texas

Texas follows a comparative fault system, meaning that if both drivers are partially responsible for the accident, their compensation will be reduced based on their percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault for a stop sign accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. This system ensures that everyone who contributes to an accident is held accountable, but it can also make determining liability more complex.

The Role of an Experienced Attorney in Stop Sign Accident Cases

If you’ve been involved in a stop sign accident, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Your lawyer can help investigate the incident, gather evidence, and determine who is legally responsible for the crash. This is especially important if there is shared liability or complex circumstances surrounding the accident.

An attorney will:

• Review traffic reports and witness statements.
• Investigate the accident scene to identify contributing factors like poor signage or weather conditions.
• Work with experts to determine the cause of the accident and build a strong case for compensation.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries and losses.

Contact Our San Benito Stop Sign Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been involved in a stop sign accident in San Benito, Brownsville, Harlingen, or any surrounding areas, contact our team at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that those responsible for the accident are held accountable.

Call us at (956) 368-0000 for a free consultation and get the legal help you need today. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve!

Injuries in Stop Sign Accidents

Stop sign accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash: A neck injury caused by sudden jerking motion in a crash.
• Concussions: Head injuries that may require immediate medical attention.
• Broken Bones: Fractures from the force of the impact.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine that could lead to long-term disability.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen.
• Emotional Trauma: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress after the accident.

What to Do After a Stop Sign Accident in San Benito

If you have been involved in a stop sign accident in San Benito, here are the steps you should take to protect your legal rights:

1. Get Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately obvious.
2. Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any road conditions that might have contributed to the crash.
3. Report the Car Crash: Call the police to report the accident. A police report is essential for your claim.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault at the scene. Let the investigation determine what happened.
5. Contact Our Lawyers: Call (956) 368-0000 for a free consultation with our experienced stop sign accident lawyers. We’ll handle the legal details while you focus on recovery.

How We Can Help You

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we have a proven track record of handling personal injury cases involving motor vehicle accidents. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that victims of stop sign accidents receive the compensation they deserve for:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical treatments, hospital stays, surgeries, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lose while recovering from your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle if it was damaged in the crash.

How Long Do You Have to File a Stop Sign Accident Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act quickly and contact our office as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed on time.

Call Us Today for a Free Consultation – (956) 368-0000

If you’ve been involved in a stop sign accident in San Benito, Harlingen, Brownsville, or nearby areas, don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve. Call us today at (956) 368-0000 for a free consultation. Our experienced team at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers is ready to review your case and guide you through the legal process. We’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Let us help you with your case today!