What Challenges Might You Face When Pursuing Double Indemnity Claims?
Traffic signals, such as stop lights, keep drivers moving in a way that is both safe and orderly. Drivers who fail to obey traffic signals by running through red lights or not slowing down at yellow lights can cause serious car accidents that result in life-changing injuries and even death for themselves, other drivers, and passengers. Bicyclists and pedestrians in the area may also be severely injured when a driver runs a red light.
In addition to the liability that you may face for car accidents, injuries, and wrongful death, running a red light is a crime that can result in fines and may even lead to the loss of your driving privileges. Because many accidents occur in intersections, drivers need to obey traffic signals and drive cautiously to protect themselves and others on the road. If you’ve been injured in an accident because someone else ran a red light, get in touch with a trusted Nevada personal injury lawyer for guidance.
Nevada’s Traffic Signal Laws
Nevada’s laws for yellow and red lights are very clear.
Rules For Red Lights In Nevada
When a stoplight is red, drivers must come to a complete stop before the sidewalk line. A common exception is when a driver is making a right turn from a right lane, in which case they must come to a complete stop, look for vehicles and pedestrians who have right of way, and make their turn once they have determined it is safe to do so.
When a light is flashing red, drivers should treat the intersection like a four-way stop as they come to a complete stop, look for pedestrians and vehicles, and then proceed with caution. The driver who approaches the intersection first has the right of way. When two vehicles approach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right may proceed first while the vehicle on the left must yield.
Rules For Yellow Lights In Nevada
Although running a red light is clearly both illegal and dangerous, dealing with yellow lights can be more complicated. These situations require fast judgment and responses to avoid devastating consequences. Many drivers prefer to speed up and get through the intersection before the light turns red, while others will slam on the brakes to stop before the light changes. Both cases can leave you and others at risk of injury.
According to Nevada’s rules of the road, drivers should prepare to stop when they see a yellow light. Drivers should not speed up to avoid having to stop. If you are too close to the intersection to stop safely, you should continue your current speed and proceed carefully through the intersection.
Who Is Liable For Accidents After Running a Red Light?
When an accident is caused by someone running a red light, the driver who runs the red light is generally liable for the accident. This means they are legally responsible for the damages and injuries of others who are involved, whether they are other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists. However, car accidents can be complicated, and more than one person may be found partially responsible for the collision, although generally speaking, the person who initially violated a traffic law is the individual who will be primarily responsible for the accident. Your Las Vegas personal injury attorney can help determine who is liable as they build a case on your behalf.
Are There Penalties For Running a Red Light?
Many drivers don’t realize that running a red light is not only dangerous to others but is also a crime. This means that a driver who causes an accident by running a red light may not only face civil liability for the accident but may also receive a ticket or face criminal charges for their actions
Penalties for failing to stop at a red light will be determined on a case-by-case basis, but generally include:
- Fines: At least $300-$1000
- Demerit points: Drivers who run a red light will receive at least four demerit points. In Nevada, drivers who acquire 12 or more demerits in one year will lose their license for up to 6 months. Drivers who drive without a valid license will face more serious penalties.
- Criminal charges: Running a red light is a misdemeanor in Nevada. If running the light results in serious injury or death to another person, the driver could also face reckless driving and/or vehicular homicide charges.
What Should I Do If I Was Injured By a Driver Who Ran a Red Light?
Even accidents that occur at low speeds can cause severe personal injuries and vehicle damage. If you’ve been injured because another driver neglected a yellow light or ran through a red light, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries, losses, and damages. Reach out to an experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer right away for guidance, advice, and representation.
Need Legal Advice About Your Injuries From a Car Accident In Nevada?
If you’re facing painful or serious injuries, unable to work, or dealing with a decreased quality of life due to an accident that occurred because someone ran a red light, call the trusted attorneys at Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC. Our team of personal injury lawyers has extensive experience assisting car accident victims in building a strong case as they seek to obtain financial compensation for their injuries. In many cases, we can settle out of court, although we are prepared to handle your case in court when it becomes necessary. To learn more about your legal options, contact us today!
