Traffic signals keep everything in order on the roads. Without traffic control devices, there would be no system in place to control the flow of traffic and prevent accidents. If you got hurt in a collision caused by another car accidents in Roswell, GA, 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. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation today, call or contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to take your call.
Why Should I Hire a Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Accident Lawyer in Roswell?
When you hire one of our Roswell failure to obey traffic signals accident lawyers, you’re getting an experienced and dedicated professional that will help you win your settlement in various ways. In addition, we know precisely how to deal with insurance companies and will ensure that you have all the legal resources needed to file a strong claim.
Don’t underestimate how important it is to have a strong lawyer by your side. Insurance companies have large amounts of resources to fight against any claim you make. To even the odds and make sure your voice gets heard, retaining solid legal representation is an absolute must.
Understanding 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.
Traffic control devices control vehicle speeds, regulate traffic movement, 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. Causing an accident in this way is negligence, and that makes the at-fault driver liable for any damages they may cause to others.
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 the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-20. Under this statute, drivers must obey the instructions of traffic control devices unless a police officer directs them otherwise.
In most instances, failure to obey traffic signals often refers to a driver failing to stop at a red light. A driver that doesn’t obey clear and present traffic signals can face both civil and misdemeanor penalties.
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. However, 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 misdemeanor offense typically includes a ticket, traffic citation, and court date or summons. This offense also adds three points to the driver’s license and may consist of 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. In addition, if you get 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.
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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. For example, 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. 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 most significant portion of a personal injury claim. You can include any medical expenses 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 severe 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 get 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
Most car accidents will require you to get your car fixed or, in severe cases, require that you purchase an entirely new vehicle. The claim you file can also include the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle after the accident. Whatever repairs you already made will get reimbursed through your settlement.
Pain and Suffering
Unlike the above damages, pain and suffering injuries are harder to demonstrate and calculate. This is because they do not have a precise 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 build a strong claim to show those damages and fight for a settlement that will cover them.
Think Twice Before Accepting the Initial Settlement Offer
Insurance companies have zero obligation to give you a fair settlement. However, when they contact you after a car accident, they will try and persuade you into taking a fast settlement. While it may seem like they’re on your side, what they’re trying to do is to get you to settle for far less than what your damages are, so they don’t have to pay you the full amount.
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. In addition, your lawyer will help you build a strong insurance claim to file with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company.
The Statute of Limitations on Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Accidents in Georgia
OCGA §9-3-33 provides car accident victims with a general two-year statute of limitations to file their claims. However, not all claims will fall under this timeframe. Some could have more time, others with substantially less. It all depends on the circumstances surrounding your case.
Remember, the longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to win a fair settlement. We want to see you get the maximum amount of compensation for your claim. To do so, you need to take action fast. After receiving medical treatment, don’t hesitate to talk to our lawyers in Roswell, GA, as soon as possible.
Speak with a Roswell Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Attorney for Free Today
To learn more about your legal options and how our experienced and compassionate failure to obey traffic signals accident attorneys in Roswell 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. Contact us today to get started with a free, no-risk consultation.
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