St. Louis car accident caused by red light violation

Running a red light is a reckless act that can cause serious car accidents. Here's a detailed expert guide on what to do if you're involved in a car accident caused by a red light violation in St. Louis:

Steps Immediately After the Accident:

  1. Ensure Safety: The first priority is to check yourself and others involved for injuries. If there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately. Secure the scene with hazard lights and use cones or flares if possible.

  2. Call the Police: Even for minor accidents, call the police to file an accident report. The police report will document the scene, gather witness statements, and determine preliminary fault based on evidence.

  3. Exchange Information: Exchange contact details with the other driver(s) involved, including names, driver's licenses, insurance companies, and license plate numbers.

  4. Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of the damage to your vehicles, the surrounding area, traffic signals (focusing on the red light), and any visible skid marks. Note weather conditions, road signs, and the direction of travel for all vehicles involved.

Steps in the Following Days:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Get checked by a doctor, even if you don't feel immediate pain. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and early diagnosis is crucial.

  2. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process.

  3. Gather Evidence: Collect the police report, medical records, repair estimates for your car, and documentation of missed work (if applicable) due to the accident.

  4. Consider Legal Representation: An experienced personal injury lawyer specializing in car accidents can significantly help your case, especially for severe injuries, disputes over fault, or complex situations.

Building a Red Light Violation Case:

  • Police Report: The police report is a crucial piece of evidence. It will detail the officer's observations of the scene, witness statements, and their determination of fault (usually based on traffic signal status).
  • Traffic Camera Footage: If the intersection has traffic cameras, request a copy of the footage from the police or relevant authorities. This footage can provide strong visual proof of the red light violation.
  • Witness Statements: Statements from any witnesses who saw the accident can corroborate your version of events and strengthen your case. Your lawyer can help obtain these statements.

Comparative Negligence in Missouri:

Missouri is a pure comparative negligence state. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault attributed. For instance, if you're deemed 10% at fault, your total compensation award would be reduced by 10%. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to minimize your attributed fault, if any.

Benefits of Legal Representation:

  • Investigating the Accident: A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence proving the red light violation and the other driver's negligence.
  • Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may downplay the severity of the accident or try to deny your claim entirely. A lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve.
  • Understanding Complexities of Red Light Accident Law: Red light violation accidents can involve complexities like disputed yellow light durations or malfunctioning traffic signals. A lawyer can navigate these legal nuances.

Finding the Right Lawyer:

  • Look for experience: Search for lawyers with a proven track record of handling car accident cases, particularly those involving red light violations.

Remember:

Getting into a car accident caused by a red light violation can be stressful. By following these steps, gathering evidence, and potentially involving a qualified lawyer, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries, car repairs, and other damages.

Share