It is common for accidents to occur on roundabouts, but it is sometimes difficult to determine who is at fault. Accidents can occur on roundabouts due to drivers failing to look properly when approaching traffic, speeding, failing to get into the correct lane or by sudden braking.
The Highway Code can be used as a guide to help see who is liable for a roundabout accident, as it sets out the ‘rules of the road‘.
The Highway Code (184 – 187) sets out how to approach and drive on a roundabout, and also gives a warning to drivers as to what to be aware of.
According to the Highway Code, when approaching a roundabout, a driver should be travelling at slow speed, checking all road markings and must be aware of all other road users.
The code also sets out that a driver must ensure that priority is given to those approaching from the right and as such should ensure that there are no other vehicles about to cross their path when approaching on to the roundabout. Drivers must also ensure that they have signalled and positioned themselves into the correct lane.
Once it has been assessed who is at fault, a car accident claim can be issued to the other driver and their insurers. If liability is denied, the claim may be issued to court for a decision as to who is at fault. However, very few roundabout accident claims ever go as far as court.
If a driver has pulled out into the path of another vehicle on a roundabout, they may be 100 % liable for the accident.
Roundabout accidents can cause:
- Whiplash
- Back and neck pain
- Facial injuries
- Chest injuries
You may be able to bring a claim for a roundabout accident that wasn’t your fault; being able to claim for your own personal injury and also the damage to your vehicle. Evidence can be useful to help support your claim – driver details, witness details, photographs of accident site and injury and CCTV if it is available.
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