Trucks Running Red Lights
The sheer size and momentum of trucks can lead to catastrophic consequences when a truck driver fails to adhere to a traffic light signal. Such blatant disregard for road safety is not just unlawful, but it also puts innocent lives at risk of serious injuries and even death.
You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one have been unfortunate enough to be involved in a truck accident caused by a driver irresponsibly running a red light. The law firm of Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci is here to help. Our truck accident lawyers will hold the negligent party accountable for their actions. Contact us today for a free consultation.
The Danger of Red Light Truck Accidents
Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, making them more difficult to stop or slow down. When a truck driver fails to obey traffic signals, they put themselves and others at great risk. The impact of a red light truck accident can result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the forces involved.
Moreover, trucks also have larger blind spots, making it even more challenging for truck drivers to spot smaller vehicles. This increases the chances of them running red lights and causing accidents. These reckless actions put other drivers at severe risk, as well as pedestrians and cyclists.
Why is it More Common for Trucks to Run Red Lights?
- Pressure to Meet Delivery Deadlines
- Driver Fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Poor Visibility
- Impaired Driving
- Yellow Light Acceleration
Several factors contribute to why truck drivers commonly run red lights. Tight delivery deadlines and unrealistic schedules imposed by trucking companies can pressure drivers to rush and disregard traffic rules. Driver fatigue from long hours on the road further decreases alertness and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of running a red light. Additionally, the slight delay in air brake systems, known as ‘brake lag,” can make it challenging for trucks to stop in time when yellow lights change quickly to red. Distractions, such as mobile phone usage or adjusting the radio, can also lead to missing changing traffic signals. Furthermore, the decision to accelerate or stop becomes critical when faced with a yellow light, as improper judgment can contribute to running a red light.
The Scourge of Red Light Truck Accidents
Imagine a motorist driving through a green light, expecting a smooth journey, only to have a truck barrel through a red light unexpectedly. In such situations, there is often no time for the passenger vehicle’s driver to take evasive action. Even the most alert and cautious drivers might only realize that a truck is crosscutting the intersection when it’s too late. A few fleeting moments of negligence can instigate a serious red-light truck accident.
Truck drivers, given their professional training, are expected to anticipate the need to stop at intersections and prepare for green lights turning red. The inability to stop, regardless of the difficulties, does not absolve them of their responsibility to ensure road safety. When a person sustains severe injuries due to a truck driver’s poor judgment, they are justified in seeking full compensation for their injuries and losses.
How Can You Receive Compensation if You Were Involved in a Red Light Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident caused by a driver running a red light, you may have legal options to pursue. Here are some important considerations:
Financial Compensation
Victims of truck accidents caused by drivers running red lights may be entitled to several types of financial compensation:
Medical Expenses: This includes immediate medical care, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, medical devices, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
Lost Wages: If the accident victim is unable to work due to their injuries, compensation for lost wages can be claimed.
Loss of Earning Capacity: If the victim’s ability to earn a living is permanently affected, they may receive compensation for loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress suffered by a victim due to the accident.
Property Damage: You can claim compensation for the repair or replacement of damaged property, such as your vehicle.
Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where the accident results in a fatality, the deceased’s family may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, sorrow, mental anguish, and loss of financial and household support.
Establishing Negligence
Prove Negligence: Gather evidence such as the accident report from a responding law enforcement officer, eyewitness testimonies, or camera footage to establish that the truck driver failed to obey traffic signals. Red light cameras may be helpful in establishing the liability of a negligent driver.
Documenting Injuries and Costs
Meticulous Documentation: Keep thorough records of your injuries and associated expenses to support your claim.
The Complexity of the Legal System
Importance of Legal Representation: Hire an experienced attorney specializing in red light crashes to navigate the complexities of the legal system and Virginia law, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.
Holding the Negligent Party Accountable
Fight for Justice: Hold the negligent truck driver accountable for their negligent actions to secure the compensation you deserve.
Support from a Competent Lawyer: A skilled lawyer will guide you throughout this journey, advocating for your best interests every step of the way.
Remember, you don’t have to face this fight for justice alone. Seek the assistance of a competent attorney who can support you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.
How Truck Drivers and Their Companies Might Fight Back
When truck drivers and trucking companies face a lawsuit, they often employ a variety of tactics to avoid liability or minimize the compensation they have to pay.
- Denial of Responsibility: The driver denies running the red light or being at fault, blaming faulty traffic lights or other drivers.
- Questioning the Severity of Injuries: The trucking company and their insurer downplay the seriousness of your injuries, disputing their impact on your life.
- Disputing Damages: They challenge the financial compensation you seek, arguing that your expenses are inflated or unrelated to the accident.
- Blaming the Victim: They allege your partial or complete fault, citing factors like being in the truck’s blind spot or not paying attention.
- Legal and Insurance Tactics: Experienced defense lawyers and insurance companies utilize complex strategies, aiming to exploit mistakes or missed deadlines.
Having a competent and experienced attorney by your side is crucial to counter these tactics and secure the compensation you deserve.
How Our Lawyers Can Help You Obtain Full Compensation:
Comprehensive Case Review: Our lawyers will conduct a thorough review of your case, examining all the details of the incident, your injuries, and the impact on your life.
Evidence Collection: They will gather and analyze all pertinent evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and medical records, to build a compelling case.
Accurate Valuation of Claims: Our legal team will accurately calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and emotional distress, ensuring you claim the right compensation amount.
Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can effectively handle discussions with the insurance companies to secure the best possible settlement for you.
Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our truck accident lawyers are prepared to file a lawsuit and represent you in court, fighting tirelessly for your right to full compensation.
Support and Guidance: Throughout the entire process, our team will provide you with ongoing support and guidance, keeping you informed at every stage and addressing any questions or concerns you may have.
Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci Fights For You
At Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci, our truck accident lawyers are not only experienced but also passionate and dedicated individuals. Their commitment to securing justice for victims of red-light truck accidents is unwavering. They understand the traumatic repercussions of such incidents and strive to alleviate the burden by ensuring victims get the compensation they rightly deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, remember – you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Contact us for a free consultation today.
