Many drivers in Oklahoma fail to properly yield to traffic. It’s important to understand that there are laws designating which drivers have the right-of-way and who needs to yield. Once these laws are understood, then drivers can avoid accidents as well as tickets and fines.
One of the most common right-of-way issues is running a red light. When a driver fails to stop at a red light, there is a possibility of an accident occurring with multiple cars or even pedestrians. Passengers and others aside from the driver make up half of the people killed or injured in this kind of driving violation. Depending on the severity of the accident, officers can hit offenders with reckless driving and other charges. The offender’s driving record will also reflect the incident.
Many drivers also fail to yield under certain special situations. When an emergency vehicle responds to a call with its lights on, drivers are required to move over to the side of the road. If there is a school bus unloading or picking up passengers, drivers are required to stop. Civil and criminal charges can be filed if an accident occurs as a result of failing to yield for any of these vehicles. Drivers are also required to yield at roundabouts when they enter the circle and at four-way intersections. Furthermore, they are required to yield at crosswalks for pedestrians.
A personal injury attorney can assist victims who have been injured by reckless motorists. By filing a personal injury claim, a victim could receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more.