Establishing Fault When Someone Runs a Red Light

Did you know that more than two people are killed every day in the U.S. by people running red lights?  In fact, studies show that red-light running crashes are on the rise with 2017 being a record high year for red-light crashes. The number of crashes in 2017 was 28 percent higher than in 2012.  Sadly, nearly half, about 46 percent, of those killed in red-light running accidents were passengers in the vehicles involved in the accident, and 5 percent were pedestrians and cyclists.  

Indeed, drivers running red lights are a traffic safety challenge and deaths resulting from such accidents are on the rise.  That is why it is so important to use good judgment at traffic intersections and drive defensively.

However, if you have been in an accident in which you or the other driver ran a red light then there are some important things to consider when it comes to the question of who is at fault.  Accordingly, in this article, we are going to discuss some of the common reasons why red-light running accidents occur, and how you can prove fault.

If, after reading this blog, you have additional questions about your own situation, then we welcome you to contact our car accident lawyers in Stuart, martin county , at our firm, Crary Buchanan.  At Crary Buchanan, we are proud of our standard of excellence, which has allowed us to thrive as one of the oldest law firms on Florida’s Treasure Coast. 

 Find the car accident lawyers in Stuart who are passionate about giving you the highest quality representation.  Call us today at 772-287-2600 , or schedule a free estate planning to consult online with our online contact form.

There are many reasons why a red-light collision may have occurred.  Some of those reasons are:

1. The light changes to yellow, so a driver will speed up to get through the intersection before the light changes to red.  Yet, those drivers going perpendicular to the driver trying to beat the light may have already started into the intersection.
2. The light changes to yellow, so a driver slams on the brakes because they know they will not make it through the intersection in time.   Thus, the driver behind the person hitting the brakes might not have enough time to react.
3. A driver is distracted and may not realize the light turned red and proceeding through the intersection anyway.
4. Bad weather may make it difficult for a driver to see that the light has changed red, and proceeds through the intersection.

While those scenarios are common, there can be any number of factors that lead to a red-light accident.  

Any attorney will tell you that the way to prove negligence is through evidence.  The more irrefutable the evidence is, the better the evidence is.  Here are a few ways to prove who was at fault for a red-light accident.

1. Red light camera .  Red-light cameras have been very effective in discouraging drivers from running red lights, and any footage from a red light camera could be incredibly helpful in showing how the red-light accident occurred.

2. Vehicle damage points .  Another helpful way to prove that a driver was at fault for a red light accident is the location of the vehicle damage.  In a standard “T-bone” type accident, it is pretty clear that the at-fault driver’s front end will be damaged, whereas the victim’s car will often have damage in the side of the car.

3. Witnesses and photos .  Gathering information from witnesses and taking photos at the scene immediately after the accident also serves as great proof that can later be used to show who was the at-fault driver.

Vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of personal injury  and wrongful death  in the nation. Many factors can contribute to a traffic accident, but as noted the primary reason is negligence. Drivers are negligent in a variety of ways. A driver who falls asleep may be considered negligent. When a careless driver causes an accident, you can pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

It doesn’t matter what type of injury you sustained.  You have the right to seek compensation if another driver caused you injury – even if you were partially responsible for the accident.   Automobile and truck accident injuries can lead to a variety of expenses, and a personal injury claim can compensate you for these costs.  Yet, you need the right legal advocate on your side to get full and fair compensation for your damages.  If you or someone you love suffered an injury, speak with a Stuart, Martin County attorney from Crary Buchanan.  We want to help you recover the money you need.

At Crary Buchanan, we are committed to providing clients with exceptional service in every aspect of personal injury law.  You can depend upon our 85 years of experience in the Florida legal industry. 

Our legal team is passionate about maintaining the high standards of professionalism and legal service that were established and practiced by founding attorneys Evans Crary Sr. and Evans Crary Jr.   Evans Crary Sr. began his law practice in Stuart in 1927 at a time when Martin County was only two years old.  He became a municipal judge at the age of 25 and served as County Attorney for 23 years. 

During his time as County Attorney, he was elected to represent Martin County in the Florida Legislature.  In 1945 he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives.  He served in the House for nine years and even served as Speaker of the House before he went on to become a member of the Florida Senate.  Today, the Crary Buchanan law firm continues to practice the example of integrity, professionalism, energy, and devotion that was clearly illustrated in the lives of both Evans Crary Sr. and Evans Crary Jr.

Our clients are more than case numbers; they are people. We recognize that you are an individual with unique needs and expectations.  Our team is here to meet your need and exceed your expectations.  When you work with us, you can have confidence that a caring legal advocate is on your side.

 If you have more questions or want a dedicated car accident lawyer in Stuart to help you, call 772-287-2600 or schedule a free consult online with our online contact form. You can always depend on Crary Buchanan for community, experience, and trust.  Call today. 

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