How Running a Red Light Affects Your Personal Injury Case

15 May 2020
 Categories: , Blog


When you are on the road, you depend on other drivers to follow the rules of the road just as much as other drivers depend on you. However, some drivers will run red lights. When this happens while you're crossing an intersection, you might collide and experience a catastrophic accident.

The Consequences of Running a Red Light

A red light runner is one of the most common causes of serious injury and death. With accidents at some intersections, it may be difficult to prove who is at fault. But when there is evidence that the driver was driving past a red light, your job will be much easier as the plaintiff. When the traffic light has a camera that automatically takes a snapshot of the crime, you and your lawyer can use this evidence to demonstrate that the other driver was fully at fault for the accident. 

Reasons for Running a Red Light

Most of the time, drivers run red lights and speed because they are distracted. If you speak to the driver shortly after the accident while waiting to receive medical attention, the driver may accidentally admit to being distracted or speeding. This should then be brought up when you're negotiating with their insurance provider.

The most common types of drivers to run red lights are those who are young and inexperienced. By being younger, a driver is less likely to have assets. Therefore, if you were to seek compensation for your injuries, you would most likely need to do so through their insurance provider.

Defective Traffic Lights

You may run into some complications if the traffic light was defective. It may give a green light to both motorists at the same time or may change colors abruptly, making it impossible for the motorist to stop at the red light. Under these circumstances, you may be able to seek compensation from the traffic light manufacturer or the city for failing to maintain a safe traffic light.

Even if you can easily prove that the other motorist was at fault for the accident, you will still want to speak with a personal injury law firm. The insurance provider of the other motorist may try to deny your claim, claim your injuries are not as serious as you have reported, or they may offer a very low settlement. An experienced attorney will have a better sense of what your claim is worth. Contact services like Snyder & Wenner, P.C. to learn more. 


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