Car accidents happen daily, and unfortunately, many occur at intersections. In Queens, a bustling borough of New York City, red and yellow light accidents are all too common. These accidents can result in serious injuries, damage, and complex legal battles.
Anyone living in the busy streets of Queens should understand how these accidents occur, what New York law says about them, and what legal options are available to victims.
Our law firm is experienced in car accident cases involving stop signs and traffic lights, so they are well-versed and prepared to protect you.
You can trust Davidoff Law and its team of lawyers to protect you if a driver does not come to a full stop and causes you any serious injuries.
Table of Contents
Why Do Red and Yellow Light Accidents Happen?
Intersections are some of the most dangerous places on the road. When a traffic light turns green, drivers expect oncoming traffic to stop, but this isn't always true.
Red and yellow light accidents in Queens often happen due to a combination of factors:
- Distracted drivingGiven the use of smartphones, distracted driving has become a common cause of traffic accidents. Drivers not paying full attention to the road may miss a traffic light changing to red or yellow, leading to a collision.
- Speeding:Many drivers try to beat the light by speeding through an intersection as the light turns yellow. Going over the speed limit can result in intersection accidents, especially if other vehicles are already moving through the intersection when the light turns green.
- Poor visibility: Weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see traffic lights and signs. Poor visibility can also make it hard for drivers to judge the speed and distance of oncoming traffic, increasing the chances of a crash.
- Intersection failure: Sometimes, traffic lights malfunction, or there is a failure in the traffic signals at an intersection. When this happens, drivers may be unsure who has the right of way, leading to confusion and accidents.
The Role of Traffic Signals and Signs
Traffic lights and signs are designed to control traffic flow and prevent accidents, but they are not foolproof.
In Queens, intersections are often busy, with multiple lanes of traffic and many drivers trying to turn left, right, or straight. Even with the best traffic signals, accidents can still occur.
- Red lights: Running a red light is a major offense in New York City. When drivers run a red light, they are putting themselves and others at risk of a collision. Red light cameras are installed at many intersections in Queens to catch drivers who fail to stop at a red light, but not all intersections have these cameras.
- Yellow lights: A yellow light is a warning that the light is about to turn red. Drivers are supposed to slow down and prepare to stop, but many drivers see a yellow light as an opportunity to speed up and beat the red light. Not stopping at the yellow light can lead to accidents, especially if other vehicles are already in the intersection.
- Green lights: A green light means it's safe to go, but only if the intersection is clear. Drivers turning left on a green arrow must be especially careful to yield to oncoming traffic. Many intersection accidents happen when a driver fails to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic while making a left turn.
Common Types of Red and Yellow Light Accidents
Red and yellow light accidents in Queens can take many forms, but some of the most common types include:
- T-bone collisions: Also known as side-impact crashes, T-bone collisions often occur when a driver runs a red light and crashes into the side of another vehicle moving through the intersection.
- Rear-end collisions: When a driver stops suddenly at a yellow light, the car behind them may not have enough time to stop, resulting in a rear-end collision.
- Left-turn accidents: Turning left at an intersection can be dangerous, especially if the driver fails to yield to oncoming traffic. These types of accidents are common at intersections with no green arrow signal.
- Pedestrian accidents: Intersections are also dangerous for pedestrians. A pedestrian crossing the street may be struck by a car if a driver runs a red light or turns right without checking for pedestrians.
Consequences of Red and Yellow Light Accidents
Under New York law, drivers who cause an accident by running a red or yellow light can face heavy consequences. Consequences include fines, points on their driving record, and increased insurance premiums.
In more severe cases, a driver may even face criminal charges if their actions result in serious injuries or death.
For victims of red and yellow light accidents in Queens, seeking compensation is often needed to cover medical bills, lost expenses, and other related costs. However, dealing with the insurance company can be challenging.
Insurance companies try to reduce payouts by blaming the victim or downplaying the seriousness of your injuries.
Steps to Take After a Red or Yellow Light Accident
If you are involved in a red or yellow light accident in Queens, take the following steps:
- Call the police: A police officer will document the incident and create a report, which can be required for your insurance claim and any legal action you may need to take.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don't think you're injured, seeing a doctor is necessary. Injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not be apparent.
- Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the incident, the damage to your vehicle, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. Physical evidence can be needed to prove fault.
- Get contact information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and insurance information of the other drivers in the accident, as well as any witnesses.
- Consult with a lawyer: A personal injury lawyer will help you know your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries. At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we provide a free consultation to discuss your case and help you determine the best course of action.
Understanding Your Legal Options
In New York State, the law allows accident victims to get reimbursement for their injuries and damages. Victims can get compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
However, handling the legal system can be tedious, especially when insurance companies are more interested in protecting their bottom line than helping you recover.
Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers know the challenges faced by victims of red and yellow light accidents. Our experienced attorneys are skilled in helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Whether dealing with an insurance company or taking your case to court, we will be by your side every step.
The Importance of Traffic Experts in Accident Cases
In some cases, bringing in traffic experts to help prove your case may be required.
Traffic experts can analyze the crash site, examine the timing of the traffic lights, and provide testimony about how the accident likely occurred. Their expertise is invaluable for establishing fault and securing compensation for your injuries.
Preventing Red and Yellow Light Accidents
While not all accidents can be stopped, there are steps that drivers can take to reduce their risk of being involved in a red or yellow light accident. To prevent an accident, you should:
- Obey traffic signals: Always stop at red lights and slow down when coming to a yellow light. Never try to "beat the light" by speeding through an intersection.
- Stay alert: Avoid distractions while driving, like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Attention to traffic signs and signals, and be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Drive defensively: Be prepared for other drivers to make mistakes. Even if you have the right of way, always check for oncoming traffic before entering an intersection.
- Follow the speed limit: Driving at or below the speed limit gives you more time to react to changing traffic conditions, such as a yellow light turning red.
- Be cautious in poor weather: If the weather conditions are bad, slow down and be extra cautious at intersections. Poor visibility can make it hard to see traffic lights and oncoming traffic.
Contact Davidoff Law to Protect Your Rights After a Red or Yellow Light Accident
Red and yellow light accidents in Queens are a major problem, leading to numerous injuries and even fatalities each year. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, you should be aware of your rights and legal options.
Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to intersection accidents. The sooner you take action, the better your chances are of securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Don't wait.
Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers is committed to helping accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve. Contact us for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal process.
