When you’re involved in a collision due to malfunctioning traffic lights it can be incredibly overwhelming. Unfortunately, you’ll find there are several issues that can lead to faulty traffic lights and determining liability can be incredibly challenging to navigate. If this reflects your circumstances, understanding your legal options is incredibly important. The following blog explores what you should know about these difficult matters and why working with personal injury attorneys is in your best interest during these difficult times.
How do faulty traffic lights cause accidents?
When driving, paying attention to the traffic lights and signs is critical. However, when you approach an intersection with malfunctioning traffic lights, it can lead to catastrophe. Malfunctioning traffic lights can lead to confusion, congestion, and collisions.
Unfortunately, you’ll find that there are a number of circumstances that can cause a traffic light to malfunction. Generally, weather can result in a main factor. If there are heavy storms that bring precipitation and wind, it can impact the powerlines. Additionally, if electrical components get wet, it can result in mechanical errors.
Another common issue that can result in malfunctions is vandalism. If lights are damaged intentionally by vandals, passing vehicles may be unable to see traffic lights. These can be targeted intentionally to cause issues and chaos in town.
If you arrive at an intersection and find that the light is completely out, it’s in your best interest to treat the light as if it were a four-way stop. However, you should also know that this may not always work, especially in instances where there are multiple lanes.
How is liability determined?
If you are involved in a collision due to faulty or broken traffic lights, determining liability can be incredibly difficult, as there are many factors that must be considered. Typically, the entity responsible for maintaining the light can be held liable if they fail to maintain the light properly or do not make an effort to remedy issues with the light following bad weather.
In other instances, you’ll find that if you are involved in a collision because a driver isn’t paying attention and therefore does not see the broken light, they can also be held partially responsible.
When you are involved in a collision caused by malfunctioning or broken traffic lights, it’s imperative to understand that you do not have to accept this as an accident. If you have been injured, you should understand that you are entitled to compensation for the injuries and damages you’ve endured.
At Friedman Schuman Layser, our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to assist you during these matters. We understand that are incredibly complicated issues and that is why we will fight for you. If you need help, our team is here. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.