
Traffic signals keep everything in order on Roswell roads. Without traffic control devices, there would be no system in place to control the flow of traffic and prevent accidents. Drivers must also rely on each other to follow the rules of the road—otherwise, injuries can happen. If you were hurt in a collision caused by another driver’s failure to obey traffic signals in Roswell, our lawyers can help.
For more than 20 years at John Foy & Associates, we have been helping injured drivers seek compensation for accidents they did not cause. If another driver did not follow traffic laws and it resulted in your accident, you should not have to pay. We can help you build a strong case at no risk to you, as we do not charge you a fee unless we win you money.
To schedule a FREE consultation and case evaluation today, call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
Examples of Traffic Control Devices in Roswell
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, traffic control devices are:
- Signals, signs, markings, and other devices on streets and highways that keep traffic movement safe and efficient.
- Meant to control vehicle speeds, regulate the movement of traffic, warn drivers about dangerous conditions, and provide vital information about delays or detours.
Examples of traffic control devices in Roswell include:
- Road signs like stop signs or warning signs
- Traffic signals like green, yellow, and red traffic lights
- Road markings like words, lines, reflectors, and symbols, and
- Traffic bollards removable or fixed posts to protect drivers
These signals are meant to keep everyone on the road safe and responsible. That’s why, if a driver does not obey a signal, it can easily lead to an accident.
Roswell’s Laws on Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
Some of the most common violations in Georgia are related to a driver failing to obey traffic control devices, which are outlined under Georgia Code section 40-6-20. Under this statute, drivers must obey the instructions of traffic control devices unless a police officer directs them otherwise.
Failure to obey traffic signals often refers to a driver failing to stop at a red light. There are also two main ways someone is penalized for this type of violation:
- As a civil violation or
- As a misdemeanor crime
Civil Penalty for Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
If a traffic camera on a light catches a driver running a red light, the driver will typically face a civil penalty of up to $70. Since civil penalties are not considered to be moving violations, no driving points or other penalties are required.
Misdemeanor for Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
When a police officer stops someone for not following a traffic signal, they can be charged with Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device. This is a misdemeanor offense and typically includes a ticket, traffic citation, and court date or court summons.
This offense also adds three points to the driver’s license and may include a fine of up to $1,000 and higher insurance premiums.
In either situation above, if the driver’s failure to obey traffic signals results in an accident with injuries or deaths, the penalties are more serious. If you were injured in an accident caused by another driver not following traffic laws, they are legally responsible for the damages. That means you have the right to file a personal injury claim with their insurance company for compensation.
Damages You Can Claim After a Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Accident
In Georgia, the negligent party in an injury accident is legally liable for the damages. If your accident happened because the other driver did not follow traffic laws, such as running a red light, they are likely responsible for the costs of your accident.
Before you accept anything from the other driver’s insurance company or assume any of the blame, talk to a Roswell failure to obey traffic signals lawyer. They can help you show the evidence and fight for your right to recovery. Your lawyer will help you build a strong insurance claim to file with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company.
Here are some of the damages you can claim in an auto accident you did not cause.
Medical Costs
The costs of medical care typically make up the largest portion of a personal injury claim. You can include any medical costs that result from the accident in your case. Those may include:
- Doctor and hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and
- Ongoing or future medical treatment
You’ll want to keep track of all medical bills, medication receipts, and other evidence of your medical costs after the accident. It’s also vital that you see a doctor as soon as you can. That will show the insurance company that your injuries were serious enough to need prompt treatment and that the medical bills resulted directly from the accident.
Lost Wages
If you were working before the accident happened, you can claim lost wages from work time you’ve had to miss because of the incident. You’ll want to keep track of all days and hours you missed as well as any bonuses or raises you might have earned if the accident hadn’t happened.
If you are left with a permanent injury or disability from the accident that affects your ability to work, you may also be able to claim loss of earning capacity.
Property Damage
Your claim can also include the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle after the accident.
Pain and Suffering
Unlike the above damages, pain and suffering damages are harder to demonstrate and calculate. They do not have a clear dollar amount, and they refer to the physical and emotional pain and suffering you have experienced because of the crash.
A Roswell failure to obey traffic signals lawyer can help you determine the total value of all of your damages. They can also make sure you are building a strong claim to show those damages and fight for a settlement that will actually cover them.
Speak with a Roswell Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Lawyer for Free Today
To learn more about your legal options and how our experienced and compassionate attorneys can help, call John Foy & Associates today. We bring more than 20 years of experience to the table, and we do not charge you a fee unless we win you money. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today to get started with a FREE, no-risk consultation.