Blame Game: Which Drivers Is At Fault? You Decide

By Blind Spot DriveBlog

Blame Game: Which Drivers Is At Fault? You Decide

The rise of dashcams has turned our roads into digital battlegrounds, with endless clips showing drivers squabbling over who’s at fault. Some cases are cut and dried, but others? Not so much. Let’s dive into six controversial driving incidents and use our Highway Code knowledge to decide who’s to blame—and why.

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Clip 1: Car vs. Lorry Junction Crunch

What Happened?

At a junction leading to a dual carriageway, a blue Toyota pulls up beside an HGV. The lorry moves off and clips the car, dragging it a short distance.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for the Lorry Driver:
  The truck driver might argue that they couldn’t see the car due to the truck’s blind spots. The Highway Code advises smaller vehicles to avoid sitting in blind zones.
• Arguments for the Toyota Driver:
  The car driver could claim the lorry failed to check their mirrors properly before moving off. Rule 159 requires drivers to ensure it’s safe to proceed.

Verdict: The Toyota driver shares some blame for poor positioning, but the ultimate fault lies with the lorry driver for not ensuring a clear path.

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Clip 2: Learner Scooter vs. ‘Hot’ Hatch Showdown

What Happened?

A learner scooter rider gets furious at a Vauxhall Corsa driver who cuts them off with a sudden U-turn.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for the Scooter Rider:
  The scooter was traveling straight, with right of way. The Highway Code explicitly warns against cutting off other road users.
• Arguments for the Corsa Driver:
  The car driver might argue they signaled before their U-turn, assuming it was safe.

Verdict: The Corsa driver is at fault. Regardless of their signaling, they should have ensured no other vehicles were close enough to be affected.

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Clip 3: Cyclist vs. Cop Car Standoff

What Happened?

A cyclist confronts a police car for passing too closely. The officer believes the cyclist wasn’t leaving enough room for overtaking vehicles.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for the Cyclist:
  Rule 163 of the Highway Code requires vehicles to give cyclists at least 1.5 meters of clearance. The close pass violated this rule.
• Arguments for the Police Driver:
  The officer might argue the cyclist was hogging the lane unnecessarily. Rule 66 advises cyclists to let faster traffic pass when safe.

Verdict: The police car driver is at fault for breaching overtaking clearance rules. Cyclists have a right to take up space to ensure their safety.

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Clip 4: Motorcyclist vs. Car Crash

What Happened?

As a car turns right, it cuts off a motorcyclist, causing the rider to crash over the bonnet.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for the Motorcyclist:
  Motorcyclists have the same rights as cars, and the driver should have ensured a clear path before turning.
• Arguments for the Car Driver:
  The car driver might argue the motorcycle was speeding or not easily visible.

Verdict: The car driver is primarily at fault. The Highway Code (Rule 170) requires drivers to give way to oncoming traffic before turning.

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Clip 5: Bus vs. Car Backoff

What Happened?

A Ford Focus tries to overtake a bus stopped at a bus stop. The bus pulls out suddenly, forcing the car to brake.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for the Bus Driver:
  Buses have the right of way when signaling to leave a stop, as per Rule 223 of the Highway Code.
• Arguments for the Car Driver:
  The car driver might argue the bus pulled out recklessly without enough warning.

Verdict: The bus driver is not at fault. The car driver should have anticipated the bus’s intentions and slowed accordingly.

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Clip 6: SUV vs. Parking Smash

What Happened?

Two vehicles, both reversing simultaneously, collide in a parking lot.

Who’s to Blame?

• Arguments for Both Drivers:
  Both drivers are required to check their surroundings before reversing. The Highway Code emphasizes caution in shared spaces like parking lots.

Verdict: This is a shared fault. Both drivers neglected their responsibility to ensure a clear path.

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Conclusion

Deciphering blame in these incidents isn’t always straightforward. The Highway Code provides guidance, but context matters. Drivers should prioritize caution, communication, and awareness to avoid accidents.

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FAQs

1. Can dashcam footage be used in court?

Yes, dashcam footage is often admissible as evidence in legal disputes or insurance claims.

2. What should I do if I’m involved in an accident?

Stay calm, ensure everyone’s safety, exchange information, and report the incident to your insurer.

3. Are cyclists entitled to use the full lane?

Yes, cyclists can use the full lane if necessary for their safety.

4. Can a bus driver pull out without warning?

No, bus drivers must signal and ensure it’s safe to pull out, though other drivers should give them priority.

5. What are the common causes of parking lot accidents?

Distracted driving, poor visibility, and failure to check surroundings are common causes.

Main image by Drivers