Traffic signals are essential for all drivers in Stonecrest. If a motorist chooses to disobey a traffic sign or signal, it can lead to a severe accident. Side-impact collisions, head-on accidents, and other crashes are common. If you or a loved one were injured in this type of accident, a Stonecrest car accident lawyer can help.
Our attorneys at John Foy & Associates have been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We are not afraid to fight aggressively for your rights. As one of Georgia’s largest injury firms, we know what it takes to win cases.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. There is no charge to you unless we win you money. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your free case review.
How We Help After a Disobeyed Traffic Signals Accident
All drivers have a legal duty to drive safely. That includes following all traffic signs and signals correctly. Failing to obey traffic laws puts everyone on the road at risk.
After an accident caused by failing to obey traffic signals, you have rights. If the other driver was at fault, you can seek financial compensation. That usually starts with an insurance claim against the other driver.
An experienced attorney can help in several ways, including:
- Investigating the car accident
- Determining who was at fault
- Getting copies of the accident report and other documents
- Interviewing witnesses to the crash
- Working with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals
- Reviewing medical records and your other losses
- Calculating your total damages from the accident
- Building a claim to file with the other driver’s insurance company
- Negotiating with the insurance company if you get an unfair offer
- Taking your case to court if you cannot get a fair settlement offer
You should not have to pay for another driver’s carelessness. In Georgia, all injury cases depend on the concept of negligence, which is a lack of care. An experienced lawyer can help prove the other driver’s fault and your damages.
At John Foy & Associates, we help accident victims who have been injured at no fault of their own. That includes drivers, pedestrians, and others who were hurt.
To learn more about what we can do for you, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We’ll answer your questions and go over your options during a FREE consultation.
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Traffic Signals on Georgia Roads
The Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-21 covers the meanings of different traffic signals:
Green Signals
Drivers with a green traffic signal can:
- Go straight
- Turn right (unless a sign prohibits it)
- Turn left (unless a sign prohibits it)
Turning drivers should yield to approaching vehicles. If there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk, drivers should stop until the person crosses.
Drivers with a green arrow can enter an intersection to move in the arrow’s direction.
Yellow Signals
Drivers with a yellow signal should know that a red signal is coming soon. It’s typically a signal for drives to slow down and prepare to stop.
Red Signals
Drivers with a red signal should stop:
- At a clearly-marked stop line
- Before a crosswalk, if there is no stop line
- Before an intersection, if there is no crosswalk
Drivers can make a right turn at an intersection after stopping. Drivers must yield to oncoming traffic or crossing pedestrians before going.
Drivers can also turn left from the left lane of a one-way street onto another one-way street on a red light. Again, drivers should yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians first.
When there is a red arrow, drivers cannot move in the arrow’s direction until it turns green.
Examples of Failing to Obey Traffic Signals Accidents
Drivers who ignore traffic signals put themselves and others at risk. A driver might fail to obey signs for many reasons, including:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding too fast to notice signals
- Being in a hurry to move past an intersection
Many accidents happen when someone runs a red light or stop sign. Running a red light can cause side-impact accidents, side-swipe accidents, or head-on collisions. Pedestrians can also become seriously injured or killed.
Motorists often speed up when trying to run a light. While it’s legal to pass a yellow light, it can quickly turn to red—which is illegal. The higher speed can increase the risk of severe or fatal injuries.
How to Know If You Have a Claim
After your car accident, you might wonder about your rights. Do you have a basis for a personal injury claim? Can you collect compensation for your injury costs? These are questions that a Stonecrest car accident lawyer can help you answer.
You likely have a case if:
- Someone else put you in harm’s way
- The person or party’s negligence caused your accident
- You have injuries because of the accident
An experienced lawyer can determine if you have a case. Your lawyer will review the accident details and your rights. If you have an accident claim, it’s best to start working on it immediately.
Damages from a Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Accident
You could deserve full compensation for your accident costs. Common personal injury damages include:
- Doctor and hospital bills
- Prescription medication costs
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs or replacements
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
A sudden car accident can take many things from you. If you were not at fault, you have a right to seek compensation for your damages. You can file a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party.
If another driver was at fault, you can file a claim with their insurance company. However, insurance companies look for ways to pay you less. Before you accept any money from the insurer, consult with a car accident lawyer.
Talk to a Stonecrest Car Accident Lawyer for Free
Traffic signals exist for a reason. When someone disobeys signals, they put everyone at risk of harm. If you have suffered injuries from an accident, John Foy & Associates is here for you.
We can stand up to the insurance companies and protect your rights. If you need to take your case to court, we’ll be there every step of the way. Learn more today during a FREE consultation with our team.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your free consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form