While traffic lights are located at intersections to reduce the number of accidents that occur, crashes still happen. If a car fails to stop in time, or ignores the traffic light, or a traffic light malfunctions, a collision can occur.
If you have been hit at a traffic light, you have most likely suffered damages. Traffic light accidents can cause life-altering injuries and severe damages, especially if a car has been T-boned.
You might be able to recoup compensation for those damages by pursuing a personal injury claim against the liable party.
To have a successful personal injury claim, you will have to show that the other party was negligent, and that negligence led to the accident that caused your injuries.
There are four elements of negligence – duty, breach of duty, causation, and damages.
All drivers have a duty to adhere to traffic regulations, if a driver runs a red light the duty has been breached. If running the stop light causes an accident, which in turn, causes damages, all four elements have been proven.
What Should Be Done at the Accident Scene
You should stay on the scene of the accident. Here are a few things that you should do to protect your rights and to maintain evidence to support your claim.
- Call the police. You will need an officer to come to the scene and investigate the crash, determining preliminary fault and completing an accident report. You will need a copy of this report.
- Use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene and of the damages. These can be beneficial in proving what happened.
- Get the names of any witnesses along with their contact details.
- Exchange insurance details with the other driver.
- If injuries are serious, ask for an ambulance.
What Should Be Done After Being Hit at a Traffic Light
After you leave the scene of the crash, you still need to do a few things to maintain documentation in support of your claim.
- Seek medical care right away. Medical treatment must be established as soon as possible. Failure to get care established will damage your personal injury claim.
- Maintain thorough documentation. Keep medical bills, medical records, and receipts for any prescriptions, medical equipment, or medical devices.
- Keep thorough records regarding missed work and lost wages.
- Get a written estimate for repairing the damage to your vehicle.
- Get a copy of the accident report.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been hit at a traffic light, you should consult with an personal injury lawyer.
Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, so you have no out of pocket costs. Your attorney will not be paid until you get a judgment or settlement for your damages.
A lawyer will investigate the accident, establish negligence and gather documentation and supporting evidence for your claim.
Because personal injury claims are challenging and require negotiations with an insurance company, you should consult with a lawyer right away.
Time is of the essence, as a strict statute of limitations does apply. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to have your claim reviewed by a lawyer licensed to practice in your state.
