What to Do if You Are Injured in a Red Light Accident in Newark?

Red light accidents happen in the blink of an eye, with unexpected, unwelcome consequences like serious injuries, property damage, and medical bills. Over 50 percent of all combined fatal and injury crashes occur at or near intersections, making them some of the most dangerous points on the road. 

While it can be hard to know exactly what to do afterward, the car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP can help you.

Key Takeaways

• Act Quickly at the Scene: Always prioritize safety, call 911, and gather evidence like photos of the intersection and witness contacts.
• Red Light Crash Frequency: Intersection collisions are incredibly common and dangerous, often resulting in severe side-impact injuries.
• Establishing Fault: Proving the other driver ran a red light requires prompt investigation, police reports, and sometimes traffic camera footage.
• Local Representation: Working with an attorney ensures your claim aligns with New Jersey’s specific traffic and liability laws.

Prioritize Safety

If you are involved in a red light accident in Newark, 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.

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.

If you do not want to visit a local emergency room like University Hospital immediately, 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. 

Ask for a Police Report

The responding law enforcement officers from the Newark Police Department can explain the process for getting a copy of the official police report. That will be an important piece of documentation for determining fault and pursuing compensation.

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.

Gather More Evidence

If possible, take photos of the scene, including the following:

• 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 municipal traffic cameras at the scene, too.

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 local car accident attorney; many offer free consultations and will advise you of your legal rights.

Who Is at Fault in a Red Light Accident in Newark?

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. Under New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence laws, this shared liability could affect how much compensation each party is entitled to receive, provided your share of the fault does not exceed 50 percent.

What Compensation Can I Receive After a Red Light Accident in Newark?

If you are injured in a red light accident, you may be entitled to compensation for several types of damages, including the following:

• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Newark Red Light Car Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an intersection accident in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can permanently forfeit your right to seek compensation.

What if the driver who hit me denies running the red light?

This is why gathering evidence is so critical. A thorough investigation can utilize traffic camera footage, dashcam video, skid mark analysis, and independent witness statements to prove the other driver’s liability.

Should I speak to the other driver’s insurance adjuster?

No. Insurance adjusters often try to get you to make statements that can minimize your claim. It is always best to direct these communications to your personal injury attorney.

Our Dedicated Newark Car Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP Offer Free Legal Consultations After Red Light Crashes

Being injured in a red light accident can be traumatic. Our knowledgeable Newark car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP can explain your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas. Call 973-675-8277 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation today.