With multiple vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists crossing lanes and navigating junctions, they are among the most common locations forroad traffic collisions. In 2024, there were 128,920 road casualties in Great Britain, including 1,607 fatalities , with 33% of serious accidents occurring at junctions. This blog examines the most common types of collisions at junctions and the factors that can affect responsibility in each case.

Rear-end collisions

A rear-end collision at a junction typically happens when a driver fails to maintain a safe following distance. Drivers who follow too closely, particularly in stop-start traffic, leave themselves with little to no reaction time if the vehicle ahead comes to a sudden stop. Distraction is another frequent factor, as even a brief glance at a phone can lead to a collision. 

Liability in rear-end collisions almost always rests with the driver who has struck the vehicle in front. The Highway Code states that drivers must allow enough space to stop safely, taking road and weather conditions into account. However, there are situations where the circumstances may warrant closer scrutiny. A leading driver braking suddenly without justification could affect how liability is assessed. In cases involving multiple vehicles - such as when a rear-end impact causes a chain reaction - liability may be shared between multiple parties, depending on how the collisions unfolded.

Side-impact collisions (T-bone collisions)

–Junctions require vehicles to move in different directions with varying priorities, increasing the risk of side-impact collisions (often called T-bone accidents). These often happen when a driver fails to give way at a junction..

Another common cause is drivers misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles as they cross or turn at a junction. Liability in side-impact collisions at junctions depends on the circumstances but is usually attributed to the driver who failed to follow road priorities. If a motorist enters a junction without yielding to oncoming traffic, runs a red light or moves through a stop sign they will typically be found at fault. However, there are cases where responsibility may be shared - if the oncoming vehicle was travelling at excessive speed, or failed to use headlights in low visibility conditions, for example.

Head-on collisions

Head-on accidents often lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Driver distraction plays a significant role here - with someone failing to see another vehicle approaching as they enter or cross a junction. Visibility can also be a factor, particularly at poorly lit junctions, those with obstructed sightlines or in adverse weather conditions.

Liability in head-on collisions at junctions usually rests with the driver who has entered the opposing lane or failed to give way. For instance, a motorist attempting to turn right across oncoming traffic without properly assessing the gap may be held responsible. Similarly, a driver veering into the wrong lane due to distraction, misjudgement or impairment would likely bear liability. However, there are cases where the circumstances require further investigation. If an oncoming vehicle was speeding, overtaking dangerously, or driving without headlights in low visibility conditions, these factors could influence the determination of fault.

When assessing liability, insurers and legal representatives will examine dashcam or CCTV footage, road markings, witness statements, and any evidence of braking before impact. Skid marks, vehicle damage and positioning at the scene will help reconstruct the events leading to the collision.

Single-vehicle crashes

A single-vehicle crash occurs when a vehicle collides with a stationary object, such as a barrier, traffic light or lamppost, or veers off the road. These accidents can happen when a driver swerves to avoid another vehicle, experiences mechanical failure or loses control due to excessive speed or poor weather conditions. It’s also possible that another driver or pedestrian could be held liable for causing the accident - the involvement of only one vehicle doesn’t necessarily imply it was the driver’s fault.

Collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists

Junctions are high-risk areas for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busy urban settings where visibility is limited and multiple road users are navigating the same space. These collisions often occur when drivers fail to check for cyclists before turning, pedestrians cross unexpectedly or obstructions such as parked vehicles reduce visibility. Even at lower speeds, the impact of a vehicle striking a pedestrian or cyclist can result in severe injuries. While driver awareness plays a crucial role in preventing accidents, other factors such as road layout and pedestrian behaviour also influence the likelihood of these incidents.

Can you claim for a junction collision?

If you believe another road user is at fault for your accident, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries and loss of earnings. When you get in touch with the team at Switalskis, we will help you establish whether you have a valid claim, and help you gather evidence together to make a strong case. We take all cases on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay a penny for our services - we will take our agreed fee from the amount of compensation you receive. Visit our motor accident claims page to find out more.