Traffic light accidents are common and often result in severe injuries. In this blog, we will discuss who may be liable for these types of accidents and how to determine liability.
Causes of Traffic Light Accidents
These collisions typically occur at intersections due to a variety of factors, many of which are preventable. Several driver behaviors significantly contribute to traffic light accidents. These include:
- Red light running. Disregarding a red traffic signal and proceeding into an intersection can lead to an accident, and unfortunately, running red lights is not as uncommon as you may think. In 2022, 1,149 people died in red light-related accidents, and a 2019 study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that Kentucky was ranked 7th in the U.S. for having the most fatalities caused by red light running. The study examined traffic accident data during a 10-year period, and with respect to these accidents, the victims were not the negligent party in nearly 65% of cases.
- Yellow light violations. Many people try to “beat” yellow lights and speed through intersections before the light changes. However, they may not make it or may hit a car also trying to beat the light.
- Driving under the influence. Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs can lead to accidents anywhere.
- Distracted driving. Drivers engaging in activities unrelated to driving, such as texting or using a cell phone, can cause traffic light incidents. For instance, a driver checking a text may not notice a light signal has changed to red and simply follow behind the car in front of them into traffic.
- Failure to yield. Not coming to a complete stop at an intersection or failing to yield the right of way can lead to a traffic light crash.
- Speeding. Speeding significantly reduces a driver's reaction time, making it difficult to stop safely at a yellow light. This increased speed can lead to a rear-end collision with a vehicle that has already started braking for the impending red light. Speeding through a yellow light also increases the risk of a collision with oncoming traffic.
- Ignoring traffic signs. Disregarding any traffic control device or sign can lead to a traffic light collision. For instance, a driver who ignores a sign saying no turn on red and the red right turn signal may get into a crash with those making a left turn into the same lane.
Determining liability in traffic light accidents can be complex as multiple factors often contribute to the collision. In many cases, more than one person may share responsibility for the accident. A thorough investigation is typically necessary to accurately assess fault and liability. Kentucky is what is known as a “comparative fault” state, meaning that responsibility (or fault) can be divided if more than one party is negligent, or partially negligent.
Who May Be Liable
As evidenced by the common causes of these accidents, traffic light accidents are overwhelmingly the result of driver error. While driver error is commonly the primary cause, malfunctioning traffic lights and other issues outside of drivers’ control can contribute to accidents.
Potential parties who could also be liable for a traffic light accident include:
- The driver who violated traffic laws or operated their vehicle negligently.
- In multi-vehicle accidents, multiple drivers may share responsibility.
- Municipalities or state agencies responsible for maintaining traffic signals and road conditions.
- Manufacturers or mechanic companies (who failed to detect or address a vehicle defect that caused the accident).
Pedestrians may also contribute to these accidents. Actions like jaywalking, crossing against a pedestrian signal, or stepping into the road without checking for traffic can lead to accidents. To successfully establish the liability of any of these parties, clear and compelling evidence demonstrating causation is essential.
Determining Liability: Key Evidence to Consider
Establishing liability in a traffic accident requires a thorough examination of various forms of evidence. These evidentiary components play a crucial role in reconstructing the incident and assigning fault.
Key pieces of evidence that can be used to determine liability in a traffic accident include:
- Traffic signal information. Data regarding the traffic signal's operation, timing, and any malfunctions at the time of the accident.
- Police reports. Official documents detailing the accident, including location, time, involved parties, injuries, and preliminary findings.
- Witness statements. Accounts from individuals who observed the accident, providing firsthand information about the events leading up to and following the collision.
- Data, Photographs and video footage. Visual evidence (i.e., dash cam footage, street camera videos, traffic camera footage, etc.) capturing the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic flow.
- Medical records. Documentation of injuries sustained in the accident, including treatment, diagnoses, and prognoses.
- Vehicle damage assessment. Examination of the vehicles involved to determine the impact points and the sequence of events.
- Expert witness testimony. Analysis by qualified professionals, such as accident reconstructionists or engineers, to provide specialized insights into the cause of the accident.
The strength of a liability claim often hinges on the quality and quantity of evidence presented. It is essential to gather and preserve all relevant evidence to build a compelling case.
Injured in an Auto Accident? Contact Attorney Brett!
Brett H. Oppenheimer, PLLC offers clients experienced counsel, as Attorney Brett Oppenheimer has over 30 years of legal experience. Since 1991, he has helped countless clients collect millions of dollars in settlements against negligent parties.
In his decades of practice, he has developed a reputation for being accessible to clients and taking time to offer each and every client personalized care and counsel. When you retain his counsel, you can trust that he will take the time to answer your emails and calls, keep you updated on the progress of your case, and act with your best interest and case goals in mind.
If you or a loved one suffers injuries in a traffic light accident, Attorney Brett can discuss how you can move forward with pursuing compensation for your losses. He can also help with:
- Calculating your damages
- Establishing liability
- Obtaining evidence
- Handling negotiations or trial
Schedule your case consultation today by calling (502) 242-8877 or completing this online contact form.