Failure-to-yield accidents are some of the most common types of car accidents in the country.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there were 4,239 cases of failure to yield right of way in 2021, accounting for 7% of all fatal crashes that year.
A failure-to-yield accident happens when a driver fails to yield or give the right of way to another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist that has the legal right to do so, such as when they have the green light.
This accident typically happens in the following situations:
- At crosswalks
- At stop signs
- At intersections
- At four-way stops
- At yield signs
- When making a left turn
- When making a U-turn
- When merging into oncoming traffic
- When merging onto a highway
- When entering a roundabout
- When making a right turn on a red light
- When passing a stopped school bus
Failure to yield can occur due to various reasons.
Causes of failure to yield accidents often include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or any other activity that takes your eyes and attention off the road can result in a failure-to-yield accident.
- Driving Under the Influence: Driving while intoxicated or impaired by drugs can slow reaction time and judgment, making it difficult to yield when needed.
- Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Speeding, honking, tailgating, flashing lights, and other aggressive driving behaviors can make it difficult for drivers to react in time to yield the right of way.
- Disobeying Traffic Signals and Signs: Ignoring stop signs, traffic lights, and other traffic signals can lead to severe accidents.
- Failing To Signal: Not using turn signals when turning or changing lanes can mislead other drivers and result in a failure-to-yield accident.
- Inexperienced Drivers: New drivers may not have the experience or knowledge of traffic laws to yield the right of way correctly in complex driving situations.
- Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, such as slippery or icy roads, can make it challenging for drivers to stop their vehicles and yield properly.
Regardless of the cause, these accidents can result in serious injuries and even death.
