Intersections are necessary junctures where roads intersect with traffic moving in different directions. Intersections are among the most common locations for car accidents. A guided intersection is one in which a traffic signal light directs traffic, helping to minimize the risk of intersection accidents. An experienced car accident lawyer in Arlington is here for you. Unfortunately, some drivers run red lights, drive through intersections while distracted, or race to beat a yellow light before it turns red, causing accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 25% of accidents occur in intersections, and one-half of car accident injuries. When a driver’s careless, reckless, or wrongful actions cause an intersection accident, they are liable for the damages, but what about when an accident results from a failed traffic signal? Contact us today.
What Causes Traffic Signal Failures In Washington?
Traffic signal lights require routine inspections, regular maintenance, and prompt repairs when required. The most common causes of signal light failures and malfunctions include the following:
- Damage from storms
- Wear and tear from exposure to the elements
- Moisture buildup in the components can cause corrosion, short-circuiting, and electrical problems
- Power surges may damage components
- Traffic collisions with power poles or signal poles may damage signal lights or interrupt power
- A signal light may have faulty components, problems with the conflict monitor that switches the lights to flashing lights, or failed sensors
City municipalities owe a legal duty of care to those on the roadways, including the duty to maintain roads, plan safe intersections, and provide routine maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure that signal lights do not fail or malfunction, causing an accident.
Who Is at Fault and Liable for Damages When a Failed Signal Light Causes an Accident?
It often takes an in-depth investigation to determine fault in intersection accidents, especially when a traffic signal failure causes the crash. Depending on all circumstances of the accident, the following entities could be fully at fault, or multiple entities could share fault.
- The municipality’s road maintenance department
- A contractor, if the city or county uses contracted maintenance services to inspect and maintain traffic signals
- The manufacturer of a defective signal light or a faulty component
- A negligent driver
A driver may be held liable for car accident damages even if a signal light malfunctions, depending on their reaction. For example, when a traffic signal isn’t working, drivers must follow the same rules as they would for a four-way stop. If a driver takes negligent or reckless actions during a signal light outage and their actions cause an accident, they may be held liable for damages.
Insurance companies assign adjusters to investigate accidents, while an injury victim often hires a car accident lawyer to conduct an independent investigation. A negligent driver who caused an intersection accident, such as a rear-end collision or T-bone collision, may be assigned a percentage of fault for the accident. At the same time, a city agency may share fault.
How Can a Washing ton Car Accident Attorney Help?
Insurance companies are not on your side, whether they cover the municipality or a negligent driver. Instead, they are on the side of protecting company profits. Rather than leaving a complex case, such as a traffic signal failure accident, in the hands of insurance companies, contact the experienced car accident lawyers at Wells Trumbull. Your personal injury attorney in Arlington will navigate this challenging claim to maximize the compensation you recover for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.