Understanding Fault in Yellow Light Accidents

Fault of accident at a yellow light is among the most disputed issues in intersectional accidents.

A yellow light accident may occur in a number of ways, when a left hand turn driver misjudges the speed of an approaching car, when a driver tries to cross the intersection the very moment the traffic light turns yellow, or when careless drivers fail to stop on time.

Placing blame in such instances is rarely simple. Courts, the insurance company, and sometimes a personal injury lawyer must examine what occurred to lead to the resulting collision.

Factors such as whether the turning driver yielded to oncoming traffic, whether an oncoming vehicle was speeding, and whether a driver had time to stop fully before the red light all affect liability.

Left Turn Rules in Ontario

Left turn collisions are among the most common yellow light collisions in Ontario. According to traffic law, a left hand turning car is meant to yield to oncoming vehicles traveling straight through an intersection.

In the event of a collision, the left turning driver is most often found at fault, unless it can be established that the oncoming vehicle entered the intersection unlawfully, for example by running a red light or by speeding.

Accidents occurring on busy roads, such as Bloor Street, Yonge Street, or at large downtown intersections, highlight how quickly things can terribly go wrong when drivers attempting to turn on an amber misjudge the approach of a car coming in the opposite direction.

Why Yellow Lights Can Be Hazardous

A yellow light is meant to warn drivers to prepare to stop, not accelerate. But most drivers use it as a last opportunity to cross the intersection before the light changes to red.

This creates uncertainty for left hand turning drivers and oncoming traffic and enhances the chances of:

• Rear end collisions when a driver slows down while the one behind him doesn’t.
• Intersection collisions from inattention or speeding.
• Collisions involving a left-turning driver and an oncoming vehicle traveling straight.

Consequently, a yellow light accident occurs frequently in downtown areas where traffic is heavy and light changes are rapid.

Drivers’ Responsibilities

To reduce yellow light accidents, drivers are legally obligated to be reasonable and use caution.

These include:

• A left-turning driver must always be on the lookout for oncoming traffic before turning.
• Drivers who are faced with a yellow light should stop, if they can, instead of accelerating.
• Distracted drivers or those who disobey traffic laws can be held responsible if a collision occurs.
• After a collision, it is crucial to file an official report, get medical reports and medical records, and notify the insurance company immediately.

If an injured party is considering making an accident claim, a meeting with Grilo Law can provide guidance on fault determination, filing an accident claim, and recuperating damages for property damage, medical expenses, and future care.

Accidents Involving Cars Passing from Behind

Of the most common and least understood hazards in yellow light collisions, one is vehicles passing from behind.

Imagine this: a motorist approaches an intersection as a traffic light is turning yellow.He brakes to make a careful left turn, but another vehicle behind him, distracted or bored, attempts to pass. The result is typically a rear end collision or a dangerous collision down the middle of the intersection.

Such types of intersection accidents are particularly problematic regarding determining fault. As much as the left turning driver has a duty to watch out for oncoming traffic, the rear passing driver can be found at fault due to reckless driving, failure to maintain a safe distance, or speed limit disregard.

In Ontario, negligent lane change at a yellow light accident and distracted driving make it difficult to rule out liability, even when there are multiple drivers.

Determining Fault in Yellow Light Accidents Under Ontario Law

Traffic law in Ontario places the direct statutory onus on the driver. A yellow light is not a command to speed up; it is a warning that the red light is imminent. Under the Highway Traffic Act, the driver is to proceed slowly and stop if possible.

Fault in a yellow light accident is generally established by:

• Left turn drivers: Generally responsible if they hit oncoming vehicles driving straight through a green light.
• Oncoming traffic: Partially at fault if they were speeding, distracted, or proceeded through the intersection after the red light flashed.
• Rear end collisions: Typically responsible for the driver behind for failing to stop early enough.

In case of accidents, the insurance company, police, and even courts analyze official reports, medical records, and witness statements to ascertain fault.

A personal injury lawyer can assist in assessing fault, ensuring evidence is brought before authorities effectively, and protecting your right to claim compensation.

How to Avoid Yellow Light Accidents

Yellow light accidents can be prevented if certain basic precautions are taken by drivers and they drive carefully.

To reduce risks:

• Don’t accelerate when coming to yellow; rather, prepare to stop.
• When turning left, yield to traffic and don’t hurry through the intersection.
• Make sure to leave space in front to evade rear end accidents.
• Respect the speed limit and factor in road conditions and weather before proceeding.
• Don’t drive distracted, such as texting or messing with devices, especially at intersections.
• By being observant of traffic rules and a prudent driver, the drivers can reduce the likelihood of turn accident or oncoming traffic collision.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Yellow Light Accident

In the event of a collision at the yellow light, do the following immediately:

• Prioritize safety first: Squeal towards the roadside, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries.
• Call emergency services: Report the accident to police and request medical attention if needed.
• Document the accident scene: Take photos of the intersection, vehicle damage, traffic light, and conditions.
• Exchange information: Obtain the driver’s licence number, insurance details, and contact info of all relevant parties.
• Gather witness statements: Independent accounts can be crucial in determining fault.
• Seek medical attention: Small injuries may also become worse with time, so go to a doctor and retain medical records.
• Report to your insurance provider: Notify the insurer as soon as possible to prevent problems regarding your accident claim.

Finally, consult with a personal injury lawyer. They can inform you whether or not you could be held responsible, how to handle the insurance company, and the process for seeking restitution for medical expenses, lost time, or property damages.

How Grill Law Accident Lawyer Can Help

At Grillo Law, we understand how daunting yellow light accidents are. Fault is difficult to establish in yellow light accidents, and insurance companies may try their best to downplay your claim.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers offer complimentary consultations to accident victims across Ontario.

When you work with us, we will:

• Review your police report, medical reports, and all accident documentation.
• Explore the reason for the ensuing collision.
• Handle all communication with the insurance company to safeguard your rights.
• Provide sound legal representation through negotiation and settlement, alternative dispute resolution, or trial.
• Help you recover just compensation for medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs.
• Our firm has a legacy of success in handling hurt clients in car accident cases, including left turn accidents, rear-end accidents, and intersection accidents.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a yellow light collision, don’t ride out these tough times alone. Call Grillo Law today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the recovery you deserve.