Traffic Lights and Vehicle Accidents

Traffic lights are one of the most common traffic signs on the road. But, did you know that roughly one-third of all intersection fatalities occur at ones with traffic lights? Keep reading to learn more about vehicle accidents at traffic lights.

These traffic signals can be an essential asset for preventing crashes. It’s important to note that this is not always the reality. In cases where traffic lights are installed at intersections that don’t require them, they may contribute to the increase of rear-end accidents. These accidents, however, are normally considered less severe than right-angle crashes, which are typically reduced by traffic lights.

The main purpose of traffic lights is to control the flow of traffic. They often offer additional benefits, like increased safety, reduced travel times, and more clear directions for drivers.

In this article, we’ll explore common reasons for accidents at signalized intersections, liabilities, and how to minimize your risk of accident.

Common Causes for Accidents at Intersections with Traffic Lights

• Malfunctioning Traffic Lights: malfunctioning traffic lights may create confusion among drivers. This can cause drivers to hesitate, drive erratically, or mistakenly assume the right of way.
• Poor Weather Conditions: inclement weather that affects visibility, like heavy rain or fog, can make it hard for drivers to see incoming traffic, pedestrians, and light changes. This can lead to slowed reaction times.
• Speeding: speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop safely at a yellow light. Thus, making it more likely they will run a red light.
• Complex Traffic Flow: the changing patterns of traffic at intersections can create confusion.
• Running Red Lights: running a red light increases the risk of collision with oncoming traffic, vehicles already stopped at an intersection, or crossing pedestrians.
• Failing to Yield: this can cause a driver to enter an intersection when they don’t have the right of way.
• Following Too Closely: following too closely puts drivers at risk of causing a rear end accident. If the driver in front needs to break suddenly, the driver following may not have enough time to react.
• Misjudging Traffic: this can lead to accidents by causing drivers to enter the intersection when it is not safe. This can be from failing to yield to oncoming vehicles, miscalculating the speed of other cars, or not allowing enough time to stop for a changing light.
• Distracted Driving: the use of a phone, GPS, or other device, prevents drivers from focusing on the road.
• Driving Impaired: alcohol and other drugs impair driver’s control of speed and direction, and prolong their simple and complex reaction time. Even driving tired, can impair their ability to react quickly, maintain focus, make sound decisions, and properly control their vehicle.

Who Can be Held Liable for a Vehicle Accident at an Intersection with Traffic Lights

• The Driver That Failed To Follow The Light: even if the traffic light was malfunctioning, liability often lies with the at-fault driver, as the laws of right of way should still be followed, and caution must be exercised. 
• The Government Entity Responsible For Maintenance: if the accident happened because of a malfunctioning traffic light, and negligence can be established as the reason for the malfunction, the government entity responsible for maintaining the traffic light may hold partial liability, however, this is rare and difficult to prove, and doesn’t excuse the offending driver.

What Can You Do if You’ve Been Involved in a Vehicle Accident at a Traffic Light?

Similarly to other motor vehicle accidents, when you’re involved in an accident by traffic lights, there are steps you should take in order to preserve safety and gather the necessary evidence to prove liability.

• Move to Safety: if possible, move the involved vehicles to a safe spot, away from the flow of traffic. If the accident was severe and the vehicle can’t be moved, you should step away from it to the closest safe area.
• Alert the Authorities & Seek Immediate Medical Assistance: call the police and medical services. Obtain official reports of the accident and injuries, detailing the facts.
• Call an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: an experienced attorney may be able to help you at the scene of the accident by investigating liability and helping you gather evidence.
• Gather Evidence:
  • Pictures and Video Footage: take pictures of the damages to your car and your injuries. Take video footage walking through the scene to capture details that pictures may miss, like direction you were going, angle of the crash, surrounding circumstances, etc.
  • Eyewitness Testimony: talk to any witnesses and secure their contact information—their testimony may prove valuable when presenting a claim for damages or personal injury.
  • Expert Reports: ask for a copy of the police and medical report for your records, as it can help prove liability later.

How Can You Help Prevent Vehicle Accidents at Traffic Lights

• Observe the Yellow Light: a yellow light warns you of a red light. When the light is yellow, slow down and prepare to stop.
• Maintain Appropriate Speed: speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents. Maintain your speed at a safe one within the speed limit, adjusting for conditions like heavy rain, or snowy roads.
• Maintain Proper Distance: a safe following distance can ensure you have enough time to react to emergencies and sudden stops.
• Scan the Intersection: before entering the intersection, look both ways to ensure no oncoming traffic is about to enter.
• Avoid Distractions: maintain your focus on the road. Avoid the use of mobile phones or navigational devices that may take your attention away from the intersection.
• Know Right-On-Red Rules: unless stated otherwise, in California, you can make a right turn on a red light. You must first come to a complete stop and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
• Be Aware of Pedestrians and Cyclists: pay close attention to pedestrians and cyclists. They are more vulnerable to accidents and are easier to miss. Check your blind spots for cyclists that may be using the bicycle lane.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury attorney that specializes in motor vehicle accidents at traffic lights can help you gather the necessary evidence to file a claim. They may also be able to facilitate any medical treatment you may need.

At Adamson Ahdoot, we have over 100 years of combined experience in successfully representing clients. We provide the personal touch of a boutique firm, with the capabilities of a large practice. Our team is committed to helping you obtain the maximum compensation available and the justice you deserve. 

Contact us today at (800) 310-1606 for a free consultation with no commitment.