Charleston Stop Sign Accident Lawyer
From a young age, every South Carolina resident knows to recognize a stop sign and what it means. Yet far too many drivers in the Charleston area still treat stop signs as mere advice rather than a legal requirement to come to a full and complete stop. The result is that we continue to see serious–and often deadly–actions that occur at the very intersections those stop signs are meant to keep safe.
If you, or someone in your family, has been harmed by a reckless driver who ignored a stop sign, you do not have to suffer in silence. Our Charleston stop sign accident lawyer can represent you in demanding compensation from the responsible parties. The Stanley Law Group has over 60 years of combined experience in representing stop sign accident victims and their loved ones. We understand the pain and devastation these drivers cause, which is why we will fight on your behalf to obtain civil justice.
The Consequences of Ignoring a Stop Sign or Red Light in South Carolina
South Carolina traffic laws require drivers to come to a complete stop at any stop sign, or in the case of a traffic signal at a solid or flashing red light. If there is a clearly marked stop line or crosswalk, the driver must come to stop behind the marked area. Otherwise, the driver must stop before entering the intersection.
With respect to red lights, a driver may make a right turn on red if there is no sign prohibiting such turns. Even then, however, the driver is required to yield the right-of-way to any other traffic or pedestrians who are lawfully in the intersection. Left turns on red are not permitted.
The danger of ignoring a stop sign is obvious. Drivers who speed into an intersection without yielding are likely to cause a side-impact (or “T-bone”) accident. This can have devastating consequences for people in the struck vehicle. Indeed, such crashes are a leading cause of death and permanent injuries, such as paralysis, in motor vehicle accidents.
It is also often the case that ignoring a stop sign is just one of multiple negligent acts on the part of a driver. For example, running a stop sign or red light is often accompanied by excessive speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Such reckless behaviors reduce a driver’s judgment and awareness of their surroundings. And they can all be cited as proof of negligence in a personal injury claim.
Contact Our Charleston Stop Sign Accident Lawyer Today
A driver who ignores a stop sign or red light and causes an accident can be held liable for a variety of damages under South Carolina law, including all of the victims’ medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our Charleston stop sign accident lawyers can advise you further on the specifics of your case. If you need to speak with an attorney right away, call the Stanley Law Group at 803-799-4700 or contact us online today to request a free consultation.
