Every driver in Cartersville must learn the different traffic signals before earning their license. And yet, some still fail to obey road signals and signs. If a driver caused your car accident in this way, you have rights. Talk to a Cartersville failure to obey traffic signals lawyer.
According to the AAA Foundation, red light-running deaths hit a 10-year high in 2017. Also, 28% of accident deaths at intersections happen because someone ran a red light. Failing to obey traffic signals is a big problem.
At John Foy & Associates, we fight for car accident victims. If another driver caused your crash, we’re here to help. We have 20-plus years of experience. We also don’t charge a fee unless we win your case. To schedule your FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Contact our Cartersville car accident lawyer today to discuss the details of your case.
Types of Traffic Signals in Cartersville
Traffic signals are essential for road safety. Signs and signals help control traffic flow. They also let drivers know when to go, stop, and yield.
Sadly, not all motorists pay enough attention to traffic signals. Car accidents are especially common when someone runs a red light at an intersection.
Here are some of the most common traffic signals:
Standard Traffic Lights
Standard lights include red, green, and yellow lights.
- Red indicates all drivers should stop.
- Green tells traffic to go.
- Yellow means drivers should slow down to prepare for a red light.
Flashing Traffic Lights
A red flashing light means stop, yielding to other drivers and pedestrians in the intersection. Go after yielding. A yellow flashing light means slow down and look before going through an intersection.
Arrow Traffic Lights
A green arrow means to drive in the direction the arrow is pointing. Always yield to cars or pedestrians in the intersection first.
A yellow arrow is a warning to get out of or not enter the intersection. A flashing yellow arrow means to yield to oncoming traffic until it’s safe to turn left.
Lane Control Signals
Some roads will use lane signals to control traffic. These signals mean the following:
- Red X – No travel allowed in the lane.
- Yellow X – Drivers should clear the road because it’s about to close. If the X is flashing, drivers can turn left.
- Green arrow – Drivers can travel in the lane.
If a traffic signal is not working, drivers must act as if each side of the intersection has a stop sign. Drivers who arrive first have the right-of-way.
If a signal is flashing, drivers should pay attention to the color:
- A flashing red light means to stop until it’s safe to go.
- A flashing yellow light means proceed with caution.
Why Drivers Fail to Obey Traffic Signals
Some drivers will intentionally ignore traffic signals. Others might run through a light, thinking they have enough time. Drivers who are in a hurry might fail to pay enough attention.
Some drivers might miss signals because of:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Aggressive driving
- Fatigued driving
If a driver runs a traffic signal for any reason, they are responsible. If the driver causes an accident, they are liable for the damages. You might be entitled to compensation if the crash injured you.
To learn your compensation options, talk to a car accident lawyer. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll discuss the details of your case. Our number one goal is a full financial recovery for you.
Call us today for a FREE consultation at (404) 400-4000, or contact us online. We are available 24/7 to take your call. Reach out today to get started.
How Georgia Law Treats Failing to Obey a Traffic Signal
Under Georgia Code Section 40-6-20, drivers must obey traffic control devices. The only exception is if a police officer gives different directions.
If someone fails to obey a traffic signal, the law can treat it as one of the following:
- A civil violation
- A misdemeanor criminal offense
A misdemeanor is more serious than a civil violation. However, both are a sign of wrongdoing. Let’s look at the penalties for each.
Civil Violation for Not Following Traffic Signals
Civil penalties can be a fine of up to $70. A driver can face this penalty if a traffic camera catches them running a red light. There are no other penalties for a civil violation.
Misdemeanor Charge for Not Following Traffic Signals
An office can charge a driver with Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device. The charge is a misdemeanor with the following potential penalties:
- Three points on the driver’s license
- A fine of up to $1,000
A misdemeanor can also increase a driver’s insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider the charge to be a sign that the driver is a higher risk.
Failing to obey a traffic signal has far worse consequences than fines and points. It can lead to severe injuries or death. Ignoring a traffic signal can change someone’s entire life.
If another driver caused your accident by not obeying traffic signals, you have rights. You should not have to pay for the other driver’s negligence. Talk to a lawyer today about pursuing the compensation you deserve.
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Talk to a Cartersville Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Lawyer for Free Today
When someone chooses not to follow traffic signals, they put everyone in danger. We need traffic signals to keep motorists safe. Unfortunately, some people fail to follow the rules.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries because of another driver, reach out today. Our lawyers know how to build a strong insurance claim. We will fight for your right to compensation. We work on contingency, which means:
- We do not collect a fee unless we win you money.
- You don’t pay upfront costs or out-of-pocket.
- Even the consultation is 100% FREE for you.
With over two decades of experience, we know what it takes to win. We work exclusively for injury victims — never insurance companies. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
We are available 24/7. Contact us any time to schedule your FREE, no-risk consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or fill out one of our online contact forms.
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