California Red Light Accident Lawyers
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Our California Red Light Accident Lawyers Provide Legal Guidance And Support
Running red lights is not simply a traffic infraction. It could cause car accidents, which may lead to severe injuries and even deaths. If you’re a victim of a negligent driver, contact our California red light accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. Our attorneys can review your situation with you and discuss possible legal options.
California is the largest state by population, having over 39.4 million residents as of 2024. It also has the highest number of automobile registrations nationwide, with nearly 13.2 million in 2023. In the same year, there were over 30.4 million registered motor vehicles in the state.
With these numbers, it’s no surprise that the Golden State is home to some of the busiest and most congested roadways in the United States. According to the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSA), the state had the highest number of red-light running fatalities in 2019. That year, over 840 people died due to this traffic violation nationwide, of which 128 took place in California.
The data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as of August 2025 revealed that fatalities nationwide are on the rise. In 2023, 1,086 people were killed in car accidents involving red light running. Unfortunately, the most common victims were pedestrians and bicyclists.
Red light accidents can have disastrous consequences, whether caused by negligence, recklessness, or unforeseen circumstances. These incidents may leave some victims and their families with long-term injuries and damage. They may also have to deal with claims while recovering from physical injuries and experiencing emotional distress.
Before your red light accident gets overwhelming, contact our team of dedicated lawyers in California. Our attorneys can handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. We can provide you with the legal support you need during this period.
What Red Light Accident Lawyers In California Can Do
Legal processes following a traffic collision are difficult to navigate alone. You may need qualified lawyers to help you understand your rights and guide you through the next steps. When you hire our attorneys, who handle red light accident lawsuits in California, you get the following benefits:
- Knowledgeable and Experienced Lawyers — Arash Law has decades of combined experience representing personal injury victims in California. We are familiar with the applicable laws that may apply to a specific case.
- Dedicated Representation — Some insurance companies may try to minimize payouts in some instances. Our California red light accident lawyers can provide support and guidance during the claims process. We can review the facts of your case and take legal action aimed at pursuing any compensation allowed under the law.
- Committed Advocacy — Our legal team will represent your interests in settlement negotiations. If litigation is appropriate, our attorneys are prepared to bring your case to court.
Our lawyers handle various personal injury cases in California, including red light accidents, truck collisions, and other motor vehicle incidents. With Arash Law on your side, you may be able to focus on your recovery while we deal with your claim from start to finish.
What Is The California Red Light Law?
Vehicles must not pass through a solid red traffic signal. According to the California Vehicle Code, drivers should completely stop at the limit line, before the crosswalk, or prior to the intersection.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also lists other signals where drivers should stop:
- Red Arrow — Go when there’s a green traffic signal light or green arrow.
- Flashing Red Light — After completely stopping, drivers can go when it’s safe.
However, there are certain instances where drivers can proceed through a red light after a complete stop, such as:
- Turning right, unless otherwise indicated by road signs.
- Turning left from a one-way street onto another one-way street.
In both cases, drivers must proceed with caution and yield the right-of-way to both pedestrians and approaching traffic.
Drivers learn these traffic rules before getting a license. However, our lawyers often encounter red light accident cases in California where the liable parties failed to apply this knowledge.
Penalties For Running A Red Light In California
If a driver runs a red light in California, they are subject to hefty fines and penalties, such as:
- A base fine
- Penalty assessments and fees
- An increase in insurance premiums
- A point against your CA driver’s license
The motorist will receive a red light ticket in the mail, including the date, time, and location of the incident. If they ignore this ticket, they’ll also receive a misdemeanor charge of Failure to Appear.
If one were to run a red light and injure another person in the process, they wouldn’t only receive a citation but also a civil case against them. They could be liable to pay for any damages resulting from their negligence.
Injured victims may be able to pursue compensation, and our lawyers in California who handle red light accidents can help. In the event that negligence contributed to your injuries, we are committed to seeking accountability.
Our client was stopped at a two-way stop sign before proceeding into an intersection where he was struck by a police cruiser traveling 70 mph, resulting in serious injuries.– ARASH KHORSANDI, ESQ.
Types Of Car Accidents Resulting From Running A Red Light
Different types of traffic accidents can result when drivers ignore red lights, including:
- T-Bone Accidents — A car going north that doesn’t stop at the red light is likely to crash into a vehicle going west or east.
- Vehicle Pile Ups — Running a red light can trigger a chain reaction of collisions, especially in busy traffic areas.
- Car Rollovers — When a vehicle gets struck by a car running a red light, the force of impact can cause it to tip over onto its side or roof.
- Underride Crashes — If a small car illegally crosses the intersection, it might slide underneath a larger vehicle, such as a truck or tractor-trailer. These truck accidents are usually fatal for passengers in smaller cars.
These types of collisions can lead to devastating consequences, including catastrophic injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. If you’re a victim, you may be able to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. Contact our red light accident attorneys to learn your possible legal options under California law.
Why Do Drivers Run Red Lights In California?
Running a red light is not only a traffic violation but also a danger to motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. However, despite the potential consequences, drivers still run red lights for various reasons. These are the most common ones:
The Driver Was Too Distracted
In 2021, distracted driving accounted for 3% (or 140) of traffic fatalities in California and 8% (or 3,522) nationwide. It’s also one of the most common reasons why a driver might not notice a traffic light change.
Many distractions are present inside the vehicle, but the most common is a mobile phone. Texting, calling, or browsing the internet takes away the focus needed to check traffic signals. If a driver gets caught doing these activities while driving, they could get a citation. California laws also prohibit using the phone even if the vehicle is idle at a red light.
Other forms of distracted driving are:
- Talking to passengers inside the vehicle
- Manipulating audio or navigation systems
- Eating and drinking
- Looking at something outside, other than the road
California car accident lawyers deal with many claims arising from red-light collisions caused by distracted driving. This aligns with findings from a Berkeley SafeTREC report showing San Diego County recorded the most distracted driving fatalities in 2021, followed by Kern, Fresno, Orange, and Los Angeles counties.
However, when considering the number of distracted driving-related deaths per 100,000 population, the most dangerous counties are Lassen, Trinity, Plumas, Lake, and Napa.
The Driver Did Not Notice The Red Light
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication can significantly affect an individual’s cognitive skills. Drunk drivers are more likely to miss traffic lights, other road users, or even the intersection.
In some cases, a perfectly sober driver might make the same mistake because of poor weather. Most of California enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate, including San Francisco, San Jose, Long Beach, and Irvine. However, even if the weather is pleasant year-round, the occasional fog and heavy rains might reduce visibility, causing an individual to run a red light accidentally. Some regions, like Lake Tahoe and Mount Shasta, also experience snow, which could limit the driver’s field of vision.
There Are No Red Light Cameras
Some intersections have red light cameras to serve as a deterrent. They capture images and video footage, which can also serve as proof if a violator were to appeal a traffic ticket. Red light camera records may provide evidence that could be used during an accident investigation.
As per the IIHS, 34 communities in California are running this program. Included in the list are Bakersfield, Los Alamitos, and Redding. However, some cities and counties don’t have this enforcement measure, which might encourage some drivers to run red lights without fear of repercussions.
The Yellow Light Timer Is Too Short
Driving is about making split-second decisions the whole time — from finding the right timing for maneuvers to avoiding an unexpected obstacle. This logic is heavily applied at intersections. If traffic light timers are inconsistent, drivers might get confused about whether to proceed at a yellow light or come to a stop. The brief moment of hesitation could be disastrous, affecting other motorists and pedestrians. Congested traffic conditions might also make it difficult for cars to stop safely with a short yellow light duration.
The Driver Is Rushing To Get Somewhere
Speeding is a common cause of motor vehicle accidents. It accounted for 11,775 fatalities in the U.S. in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report.
A driver who is in a rush and runs a red light can cause speeding-related accidents at intersections. In many cases, they’re too impatient to get to their destination, prioritizing their own time over the safety of others.
The Brakes Are Not Working
Although driver errors cause most accidents in California, a chunk of collisions are attributable to malfunctions. Drivers may encounter brake failures at critical moments, such as when approaching a red light.
In auto defect cases, negligence might be more challenging to determine. Who’s directly at fault for the consequent injuries and property damage? Is it the driver who might have failed to check for present risks properly? Or is it the mechanic who tinkered with the vehicle days prior? Under product liability laws, the responsibility may fall on the car manufacturer.
Our attorneys can review the circumstances of your red light accident and help identify which California laws may apply. We can work to pursue claims against parties who may be liable for your injuries.
Other Causes Of Red-Light Intersection Accidents
Aside from running red lights, our car accident lawyers also observe the following causes of these incidents:
Reckless Driving
Behaviors like tailgating and weaving between lanes pose significant risks on roadways. Reckless driving could further increase the risk of accidents at an intersection, which is where pedestrians and traffic from multiple directions cross.
Converging Traffic
The multiple lanes of traffic moving in different directions could contribute to intersection accidents. The merging and crossing may increase the likelihood of collisions, especially if a driver is not paying attention to the traffic signals.
Poor Road Conditions
Some hazards on the road could compromise car control, including:
- Poorly maintained road surfaces
- Uneven pavement
- Pothole
- Debris and other obstacles
- Road construction
At intersections, these risks are magnified because of the varying traffic paths. Dangerous road conditions can cause driving confusion and loss of traction, sparking a chain reaction.
Failure To Use Signals
Turn signals allow other motorists to understand your intent and behave accordingly. It is hard for other drivers to navigate safely around you if you don’t use them when turning or changing lanes.
Prohibited Turns
Some intersections in California prohibit certain types of turns or movements. In these cases, there would be road signs to inform the drivers. However, some might not notice them or disregard them completely, increasing the risk of collisions.
Mechanical Failures
Other types of auto defects that could occur suddenly at intersections or anywhere are:
- Tire blowouts
- Steering malfunctions
- Defective accelerators
Drivers are highly likely to lose control of their vehicles because of these mechanical issues, leading to collisions.
Common Injuries From Red Light Accidents
Red light accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common ones include:
- Whiplash — The sudden back-and-forth movement of the head in a car crash can damage the soft tissue in the neck, causing whiplash. This injury is common in rear-end accidents.
- Broken Bones — High-impact collisions can cause fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
- Brain Injuries — Victims of traffic collisions typically experience brain injuries ranging from concussions to severe brain trauma. These conditions are particularly dangerous, as they might result in long-term cognitive impairments and memory loss.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — A crash at an intersection could be powerful enough to damage the spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries may cause partial or complete paralysis below the site of the injury.
- Loss of Limb — Red light accidents involving high speeds can lead to traumatic amputations. They could also cause severe injuries that would require the affected limb to be medically amputated.
- Psychological Trauma — Accidents in any shape or form have a profound impact on an individual’s state of mind. A victim might experience increased fear, anxiety, and nightmares about the accident.
- Wrongful Death — Sometimes, collisions result in fatalities, leaving families devastated by the loss of a loved one. Our red light accident attorneys in California also handle wrongful death claims and can discuss potential legal options with eligible family members.
If you or a loved one is suffering from injuries in a red light accident, don’t hesitate to contact our personal injury lawyers in California. We can assist you in pursuing a claim for medical expenses and lost wages, depending on what the law allows in your case.
The Driver’s Responsibilities At Intersections In California
Many intersection accidents happen because some drivers are not aware of their obligations at an intersection. However, every road user must know traffic laws to navigate the streets of California safely.
Here’s a refresher on the basic responsibilities of drivers at intersections in California:
Following The Yellow Traffic Signals
If you ask California drivers what they do at a yellow light, you might get different answers. Some will admit they speed through it, while others will say they stop no matter what. Which is the correct thing to do?
According to the DMV, here’s what you should do if you encounter a yellow light at an intersection:
- Solid Yellow Light — The light is about to turn red. Prioritize stopping. You can cross the intersection carefully if it’s safe to do so.
- Yellow Arrow — The sign will soon change to either red or green. It’s best to stop, but you can proceed if you’re already at the intersection.
- Flashing Yellow Light — You don’t need to stop, but you must slow down and proceed with caution.
- Flashing Yellow Arrow — You can turn in the direction indicated. However, you must yield to oncoming traffic and use caution.
The confusion on whether to go or stop could be a major contributing factor. We recommend drivers review traffic laws and regulations to avoid causing fatal accidents.
Malfunctioning Traffic Lights
If the traffic light is defective, treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Completely come to a halt, then proceed when it’s safe to do so. In California, you must also yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and the vehicle on your immediate right.
Keeping Pedestrians Safe
California Vehicle Code Section 21950 states that you must yield to a pedestrian in any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. When approaching, you should slow down and practice due care.
Yielding The Right-Of-Way
The California Vehicle Code Section 21800 summarizes what to do at intersections. According to the law, you must yield the right-of-way in these scenarios:
- You and another vehicle to your right approach the intersection at the same time in different directions.
- You and another vehicle approach the intersection at the same time, but you’re on a terminating highway or a road that dead-ends into another. The driver on the continuing highway has the right-of-way.
- You are approaching the intersection, and other vehicles have already entered from different directions.
- You and another vehicle to your right are at an intersection with stop signs in all directions.
Additionally, you must stop for ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars when their lights and sirens are activated. You must pull over to your right until they have passed.
Keeping Intersections Clear
Even when the light is green, you must only proceed to an intersection if there’s enough space for your vehicle on the other side. Otherwise, your car will end up blocking the road, impeding the flow of traffic, and endangering pedestrians.
Compensatory Damages From Accidents Caused By Running A Red Light
If a driver running a red light causes your injuries, they may have to pay for any damages you experience, including financial, physical, and emotional hardships. That’s why it may be advisable to consult attorneys who have experience in assessing losses in such cases.
Our California motor vehicle accident lawyers, who handle red light runner cases, can help you pursue compensation for your losses. Depending on the situation, these may include:
Economic Damages
Victims in a red light accident will incur various expenses to treat and manage their injuries, such as the following:
- Emergency care or hospitalization bills
- Costs for medication and assistive devices
- Rehabilitation and treatment costs
- Payment for services required as a result of the injuries, such as 24/7 at-home care, daycare, and household help
However, damages are not limited to medical expenses. If you miss work due to your injuries, California law may allow you to pursue compensation that is equal to your lost wages and benefits. Additionally, if your condition prevents you from returning to work in the long term, it may also be possible to seek damages for how much you would have earned in the future.
Our lawyers in California may be able to assess potential lost wages and career opportunities that may have been affected by the red light accident.
These general damages are more easily quantifiable in a personal injury claim through documentation. We can present bills, invoices, and receipts to show the actual costs you’ve incurred and will incur in the future. We can also collaborate with economic and medical experts to evaluate potential future losses based on economic factors.
Non-Economic Damages
In certain cases, victims may also be able to pursue compensation for losses that aren’t necessarily expenses. Non-economic damages can be more challenging to quantify in a claim, but they’re equally vital to the victim’s recovery. Some examples are:
- Pain and suffering resulting from the injuries
- Fear, anxiety, and emotional trauma from the accident
- Diminished quality of life, either temporarily or permanently
- Injured reputation
- Loss of the usual support and comfort of the victim’s partner
These losses don’t come with receipts to easily demonstrate their actual value in a claim. Nonetheless, our red light accident lawyers in California may be able to assess the injury’s impact on your life. We aim to help you seek the appropriate compensation for such losses if they apply to your case.
Related Laws And Regulations In California
During the onboarding process, our personal injury lawyers may discuss any California laws applicable to your red light accident. Still, it’s helpful to be aware of the general legal doctrines that govern these kinds of cases.
Statute Of Limitations In California
Did you know that there are deadlines for filing legal claims? For personal injury cases in California, you only have two years from the date of the accident.
The statute of limitations aims to protect both the defendant and the plaintiff. It ensures that the responsible party won’t face threats of legal action for years after the incident. Meanwhile, the victim would still have the chance to build a solid case. The evidence would still be fresh, and witnesses are still available.
What happens if you go beyond the deadline? Your case will likely be dismissed, and you may lose your right to compensation. However, there are some instances where the statute of limitations might be tolled or delayed, such as in these scenarios:
- The victim discovered the injury much later than the accident.
- The plaintiff is a minor. The statute of limitations will start once they turn 18, giving them until their 20th birthday to file a claim.
- The defendant is out of state. The deadline will be tolled until they return to California.
The statute of limitations can be complicated due to unique factors. Talk to our red light accident lawyers to learn about your deadlines in California.
Comparative Fault Laws
California follows the pure comparative fault doctrine in personal injury cases, including traffic collisions. Under this statute, every responsible party will share liability based on their respective contribution to the accident.
Even the victim can be partially liable. They may still be able to recover damages, but their award will be less due to their degree of fault.
For example, the court awarded the plaintiff $100,000 in damages but found them 15% at fault for the accident. The final compensation would be $85,000 ($100,000 minus 15%).
Do you want to know how these laws apply to your case? Contact our red light accident lawyers in California for your free initial consultation. Use our online form to reach out. Our team is available to answer your questions and concerns.
What To Do After An Accident Happens At A Red Light In California
If you’re ever in a red light accident, you must take proper steps to protect your rights and well-being. Here are some recommended steps:
- Stay calm and check yourself for bodily injuries. Then, assess the condition of your passengers and the other parties involved. If it’s safe and won’t result in further harm, pull over to the side of the road.
- If a police officer isn’t present at the scene, call 911 and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Request medical assistance as well.
- Seek immediate medical attention from the paramedics, even if you feel fine. Car accidents can lead to various injuries, many of which can be life-threatening if you don’t act on them quickly. Some also don’t present any symptoms until it’s too late.
- Exchange information with the other party. Get their name, address, phone number, insurance policy number, and driver’s license number.
- Collect the contact details of any witnesses. They can help support your claim later by backing up your version of events.
- Gather evidence by taking notes, photos, and videos. Capture the accident scene from various angles, including road conditions, weather, and traffic signals. Highlight any injuries or property damage as well.
- Report the accident to the insurance company. Follow their protocol to remain eligible for a claim.
- Consider speaking with our red light accident lawyers in California. Victims have to go through various processes to pursue justice and compensation. We can assist in these legal aspects so victims may be able to focus on their recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Accidents In California
Who Is Liable In A Red Light Accident?
Under California laws, the concept of negligence determines liability in a red light accident. Our lawyers can help establish liability against potentially negligent parties.
The most common conclusion is that the driver who runs the red light is primarily at fault. However, liability can also extend to other parties, such as:
- The vehicle owner
- The car manufacturer
- Government entities responsible for maintaining road safety
- Employer, if the driver is on the job
Determining fault in any incident requires thorough investigation and evidence-gathering. These delicate matters are better left to our red light accident attorneys in California, who can work to assess your case and determine your possible options for a settlement based on the details of your case.
How Much Do Red Light Accident Attorneys Charge In California?
Attorneys in California, including our law firm, typically charge on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. Additionally, we also offer free initial consultations to discuss the case without any upfront costs.
Can You Sue An At-Fault Driver In California?
California is an at-fault state, meaning victims must seek compensation from the liable party. If their insurance company doesn’t cooperate during settlement negotiations, filing a lawsuit can be an option. Red light accident attorneys in California can assess a case and determine if suing may be a viable option for the victim.
Should I Get A Lawyer For A Minor Car Accident In California?
You should get legal representation even for seemingly trivial incidents. Even minor accidents could have severe consequences. Some injuries might seem insignificant at first, but they could develop into much more serious conditions later on. In many cases, victims might not know the full extent of their losses until they talk to us. Our lawyers can provide guidance, review your case, and aim to pursue compensation that may be available under California law.
Should You Call Your Insurance Provider Or Lawyer First After A Red Light Runner Accident?
After any type of accident in California, it may be advisable to contact an attorney. They may be able to guide you on what to do when talking with insurance companies. Their goal is to protect your interests throughout the claims process. Once you have legal representation, your lawyers can manage all communication with insurers and other parties. However, note that you must still follow your provider’s policies when reporting an accident.
Schedule A Case Review With Our California Red Light Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one was hurt in a red light accident in California, contact our injury lawyers to schedule a consultation. Acting promptly can support a clearer understanding of your legal rights and options from the start.
With our knowledge in traffic laws, insurance regulations, and personal injury litigation, we can help prepare your case, provided you have a valid claim. Our California attorneys support clients injured in red light accidents, including insurance negotiations and, when appropriate, litigation.
Our red light accident lawyers can represent clients throughout California, including those in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, Pasadena, and Riverside. If you cannot come to us, we can visit you instead. You don’t have to face the legal, financial, and physical challenges of pursuing claims alone. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
