Our Family Has Given A Voice To The Injured For Over 50 Combined Years
Red light accidents happen in the blink of an eye, with unexpected, unwelcome consequences like serious injuries, property damage, and medical bills. It can be hard to know exactly what to do afterwards, especially right after it happens. The Newark car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein have experience in this area, and advises clients accordingly.
Step One: Prioritize Safety
If you are involved in a red light accident, prioritize safety. Assess your condition and that of your passengers, and call 911. Even if there are no apparent injuries or seemingly minor ones, they can develop into serious conditions.
Should you not want to visit an emergency room, visit a doctor in a timely manner. Either way, you will have documentation that your medical needs were attended to soon after the crash, which is important for insurance claims.
After calling 911, check the area for traffic. If it is safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents, but avoid leaving the scene.
Step Two: Ask for a Police Report
The responding law enforcement officers can explain the process for getting a copy of the police report. That will be an important piece of documentation for determining fault and pursuing compensation. I
Step Three: Exchange Information With the Other Driver and Witnesses
This information includes their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details. If there are any witnesses, gather their contact information as well, as they may be helpful in establishing the facts later.
Step Four: Gather More Evidence
If possible, take photos of the scene, including:
- Position of the vehicles
- License plates
- Damage to all vehicles
- Driver and passenger injuries
- Traffic lights
- Road signs
- Skid marks
It is also wise to take pictures showing adverse weather conditions if they are present. Anything showing the pre- and post-accident scene conditions may be of help; check to see if there are any traffic cameras at the scene, too.
Step Five: Make a Few Calls
Call your insurance company soon after the crash to inform them about what happened. Stick to the facts and do not elaborate; anything you say might work against you in a claim or lawsuit. This is also a good time to contact a car accident attorney; many offer free consultations and will advise you of your legal rights.
Who Is at Fault in a Red Light Accident?
Fault in red light accidents is typically assigned to the driver who ran the red light. That is a clear violation of traffic laws, and often leads to accidents. However, there are cases where both drivers may share fault, depending on the circumstances. In rare cases, malfunctioning traffic signals are to blame.
Law enforcement will generally investigate the scene and use their findings to determine fault. If a traffic camera captured the accident, this footage could be used to verify the exact sequence of events. Skid marks, damage to the vehicles, and witness statements can also be helpful in determining who is at fault.
In some cases, both drivers may be partially at fault. For example, if one driver was speeding or distracted, they may share responsibility for the accident. In states with comparative negligence laws, this could affect how much compensation each party is entitled to receive.
What Compensation Can I Receive After a Red Light Accident?
If you are injured in a red light accident, you may be entitled to compensation for several types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of immediate medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder directly related to the crash may qualify for compensation.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement.
The Skilled Newark Car Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein Offer Free Legal Consultations After Red Light Crashes
Being injured in a red light accident can be traumatic. The knowledgeable Newark car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP explain your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, call 973-675-8277 or submit our form online. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.
