Traffic lights let drivers know when they should turn, yield, and go on Marietta roads. These signals are especially important during high volume traffic. When a driver fails to obey traffic signals, it often causes a severe accident. After this sort of collision, it’s best to contact a Marietta car accident lawyer.
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience working on accident cases. Our lawyers are always on the side of the injured. We can help you build a strong claim for the compensation you deserve.
We will not charge you a fee unless we win you money. A win for us is a win for you. To schedule a FREE consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Contact our Marietta car accident lawyer today to discuss the details of your case.
Traffic Signals that Drivers Must Obey in Marietta
Cities use traffic signals when other traffic systems (like stop signs) don’t work as well. Traffic lights are helpful at intersections and when there’s a lot of traffic. An efficient signal should control traffic flow and help prevent accidents.
For a traffic signal to work, drivers must follow the rules. Car drivers, truckers, bicyclists, and even pedestrians should pay attention to traffic signals.
Here are the main traffic signals to obey:
- A red light means stop. Drivers can turn right on red after stopping and yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians. If a sign says “no turn on red,” drivers cannot turn right.
- A red arrow means to stop until a green light or arrow. Drivers must not turn at all on a red arrow.
- A flashing red light means stop, then go when it’s safe and you have the right of way.
- A yellow light means slow down and stop if you can do so safely. A red light is about to appear. If you can’t stop, be aware of cars that might enter the intersection.
- A flashing yellow light means slow down and be alert when crossing the intersection.
- A yellow arrow indicates stop unless you’re already in the intersection. A red arrow is about to appear.
- A green light means go. If there are still other cars or pedestrians in the intersection, wait until they’ve gone. You can turn left on a green light only if there is enough space to turn safely. Otherwise, you should yield.
- A green arrow means go unless there are still cars or pedestrians in the intersection. Green right or left arrows are protected turns.
Sometimes, a traffic signal might malfunction. If you come upon an intersection like this, stop. Treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Make sure it’s safe before you cross.
The Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) has been working with engineers on improving Georgia traffic signals. That includes using more flashing yellow lights. Even with improvements, though, some drivers will fail to follow the rules.
If another driver caused your accident after failing to obey traffic signals, you have rights. You might be entitled to financial compensation for your costs.
Filing a Claim After a Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Accident
In Georgia, the at-fault driver in an accident is responsible for the damages. Your “damages” are losses from the accident like:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair costs
- Pain and suffering
You would not have these expenses if the other driver were more careful. To recover your costs, you can file a personal injury claim. You’ll need to submit the claim with the driver’s insurance company.
It’s best to contact an experienced lawyer early on in the process. Your lawyer can help you start compiling evidence from the crash. They will also calculate your total damages so that you know what settlement you deserve.
The Four Parts of a Car Accident Claim
To have a successful injury claim, you’ll need to prove that:
- The driver owed you a duty of care.
- The driver breached their duty of care.
- The breached duty led to your car accident.
- You suffered injuries and damages from the accident.
When a driver breaks their legal duty, the legal term is negligence. The above points will prove that the driver was negligent in your crash.
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Beware of the Insurance Company
Although the driver was at fault, you’ll be dealing mostly with the driver’s insurer. After the accident, the insurer might contact you. Do not admit any blame or sign anything before you have a lawyer.
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They will look for ways to pay less on claims. Even if the adjuster seems caring, they are not on your side. You do not have to talk to them without legal counsel.
After your accident, contact a Marietta car accident lawyer. Your lawyer can communicate with the insurance company for you. Plus, insurers are more likely to take you seriously if they see you have legal help.
Proving that the Other Driver Ignored Traffic Signals in Marietta
Proving the other driver’s fault is not always straightforward. You can say that you saw the driver run a red light, but you’ll need more proof than that.
Here’s the good news: ignoring a traffic signal is a clearly careless behavior. If you can show that the driver failed to obey signs, it will prove that they were negligent.
You might be able to prove the driver’s negligence through:
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Pictures or video at the scene
- Traffic signals records
Your car accident lawyer will help you gather data from the crash. The stronger your evidence, the better your compensation chances.
How to Build Your Car Accident Case
After your accident, there are things you can do to compile evidence. Think about preserving the scene and showing what happened. Here are some actions you can take:
- Report the accident to the police.
- Exchange names, contact information, and insurance information with the other driver.
- Talk to any witnesses, and ask for their contact information.
- Note any traffic or surveillance cameras nearby.
- Take pictures of your injuries, your vehicle damage, and the entire crash scene.
- Get medical attention as soon as possible.
After documenting the scene, contact a trusted lawyer. Your lawyer can protect your rights and can help you build the most robust case possible. You only have two years from the accident date to file (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33), so don’t wait.
Talk to a Marietta Car Accident Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience in personal injury law. Our firm is one of the largest and most respected in Georgia. We also do not charge a fee unless we win your case.
To schedule a FREE consultation today, call us at (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
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