What Are My Legal Options After a Red-Light Crash?

Arizona was number one in the nation in annual red-light-running deaths between 2008 and 2017, according to AAA. Phoenix saw the most fatal crashes during that time, as 132 people were killed in these kinds of accidents.

Even when these crashes are not fatal, they often result in severe or life-changing injuries. These injuries can cause significant damages and have a lasting psychological impact on victims.

Below, our experienced Phoenix car crash attorneys discuss liability for these crashes and evidence that may be needed to validate a claim. If you have questions about legal options following a red-light crash, give us a call today to learn more about how we may be able to help you.

Denise C.

Phillips Law Group made dealing with our auto accident easy. They always had our best interest in mind and made sure that we were happy with treatment before finalizing anything. Our Paralegal, Amy Wagner, is amazing! She checked in on us throughout the entire process to make sure our treatments were going well and that we were getting better, getting healthy was first priority. She kept us informed on the progress of our case every step of the way and was very prompt with either calling or emailing us back with any questions that we had. We are very satisfied with our experience with Phillips Law Group, and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of representation!

Squaw Peak Realty

I never thought it could happen to me, I had heard about it on the news, but truly never thought it could happen to me. I was rear ended by a drunk driver. I was lost on what to do. My car insurance company would give no directions, I and my grandson were injured, my little pick- up was smashed, I was not the one who was at fault, but I felt like I was because I could get no help on what to do! You would think that your car insurance company would at least point you in the right direction. So, I contacted Phillips Law Group, I truly never ever thought I would need the help they provided...

Jeffrey J.

Phillips Law Group helped me out a lot with my motorcycle accident. They're attentive to your needs, always have answers to your questions, and answered all my calls, never leaving me in the dark. I highly recommend Phillips Law Group.

Anthony W.

I just wanna say that I’m young and have never had an incident needing something like Philips law and I’m glad I went with them. After my accident I was paralyzed with stress on how am I gonna recover from this what do I do, but they literally took majority if not all the worry away. I really only went to my appointments and kept them updated as much I can and eventually helped me win my case. It was a quick process as well for receiving compensation very grateful. Thank you!

Sherman S.

One of the best experiences I have ever had dealing with a accident attorneys. They made me feel welcomed. They definitely listened to me and help guide me through this process with ease. There was no surprises and they made sure I was taken care of every step of the way. The best phone I made the night of my accident and God forbid any other accidents come my way but if so they will definitely be my very first call again. Best law group In PHX.

Whitney W.

I want to say for this being my first accident and unclear on what to do. They were amazing, from communication and making sure you have everything you need. The other insurance was giving me a hard time with my rental, I called my attorney at Philips Law Group and they made sure I had a vehicle to get around. They made sure I got the best care with amazing staff. They handle my case with care and at the end they still make sure I am okay. I appreciate you guys for not taking advantage of me and putting me first. It was not about the money but making sure I had everything I need and what was owed...

Jasmine J.

Phillips law group is an AMAZING company!!!! First and foremost not only did they help me with my first car accident but my second one as well!! They stayed in communication with me the ENTIRE time and didn’t leave me out throughout the whole process. Kalynn is AMAZING she is literally heaven sent. I LOVED working with her so so so much. They truly did everything in their power to get me the most money. I’m still in disbelief how much money I did end up walking away with. I’m very happy and blessed that they took my case when nobody else would. I will definitely use them again in the future NO QUESTIONS ASKED! Trust me USE THEM! You...

Tim B.

Maria Cionci and Paulina Nava are wonderful people that truly care about their clients. I have a lot of respect for how they conduct themselves in general, but especially how they graciously assist their injured clients. If you have been injured in an automobile collision, call and ask for their assistance. You won't be disappointed!

CiLo U.

I am extremely grateful with Phillips Law Group, for the empathy and concern for my physical and emotional well-being that they provided me during the process of my car accident, thank you so much! You are the best Law Firm!

Sayra M.

100% recommended, very professional and friendly staff, I had a car accident and they helped me immediately with doctor appointments and also helped me obtain a loan in advance for compensation

Kersey S.

Beyond our expectations! Amazing hard work from Phillips Law group. Team had amazing communication with my husband and myself from day one. Provided us with exceptional referrals to medical places for our care. And ended with more then what we ever expected to get from our settlement from our accident. Thank you Phillips law group.

Darren M.

I feel that I was truly blessed to find the Phillips Law Group after being involved in a bad car accident. My attorney and the staff were professional and very supportive. The firm provided compassion and sound legal advice while we navigated my insurance claim. I highly recommend giving them a call if you are involved in an accident with bodily injuries. The firm set me up with healthcare providers and really went the extra mile to help me with my case. I’m happy with my settlement and for all of their help.

Tea J.

Aaron my attorney and Jasmine my paralegal were great. Throughout the settlement process, Jasmine did a great job of keeping me in the loop of everything going on. It is a long process but being reassured during the process was helpful. Throughout the process I was provided a chiropractor and physical therapist and they all made sure that I was taken care of and feeling better before releasing me. I was also provided a trauma therapist. Though I still think about the accident and struggle here and there, my therapist did a great job of giving me the help i needed in the months following the accident. I hope to never go through this again but if need be, I...

Mary S.

Amazing Law Firm after getting the run around from the Insurance companies, I decided to call Phillips Law Group and initially spoke with Randy he was so helpful and kind, he truly cared about my situation and was explaining to me everything about what typically happens after an Accident....It just so happened to be exactly what I was dealing with. I felt at ease during our conversation like a weight had been lifted and at that point, I knew I made the right decision contacting them, and shortly there after I retained their services. I was contacted by my Attorney and Case manager within and hour and they assured me all my needs would be met - helping me with...

Grant F.

Having never been in automobile wreck before, I found myself in uncharted territory. Thankfully I ended up choicing Phillips Law Group. They took charge of my case! I want to especially acknowledge McKenna, my case manager. Without her listening -- to my good days as well some bad days due to injuries -- I would have been lost. If you ever need a Law firm, think about talking to Phillips Law Group. You won't be sorry.

Matt S.

I had a fantastic experience during a difficult time. In particular, my paralegal Brittany was extremely helpful and answered all of my questions in a timely manner and made the process very smooth. I would definitely recommend.

Chandon A.

Angie at Phillips Law Group is outstanding. She took a high degree of consideration with every concern raised and PLG lawyers are outstanding legal advocates. I highly recommend this law firm.

Wayne K.

Patrick was wonderful! When Patrick wasn’t available Jacqueline stepped. They are amazing!!!

Vincente V.

Phillips law group has met ALL of my needs and expectations, especially Angie Jones! She is a very solid individual, always a pleasure to talk to, and a welcoming face! You cannot go wrong here at Phillips, especially if your working with Angie

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Determining Liability for a Red-Light Crash

Under state law, motorists are required to come to a complete stop at a solid red light before entering the intersection, this includes before making a right turn on a red light. However, some intersections have signs prohibiting right turns on red lights. State law also allows left turns on red lights if drivers are turning from one one-way street onto another.

When facing a solid red light, drivers typically do not have the right of way. Drivers approaching from the right or left likely have the right of way, as dictated by traffic signals. Green lights or arrows can also give left-turning drivers the right of way while others in the intersection face a solid red light.

General Rules About Liability for Red-Light Crashes

While every situation is unique, if you were traveling through an intersection and had the right of way and were hit by a driver who ran a red light, the other driver likely bears 100 percent of the fault. The insurance company may dispute these types of claims, but an experienced attorney should be able to build a strong case for compensation.

Violating another vehicle’s right of way is illegal and could be used as evidence of negligence on the part of the at-fault driver. All motorists have an obligation to safely operate their vehicles and avoid negligent behavior.

Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care to prevent harm to someone else. Drivers have a duty to use reasonable care, and if they breach that duty and it leads to an injury, they could be held liable for damages. Arizona is an at-fault state when it comes to car crash damages, which means at-fault drivers and their insurance companies can be held liable for damages to crash victims.

Possible Exceptions

There could be situations where victims share some amount of fault for the crash. For example, if another driver ran a red light while you were turning left across this driver’s path, and you were distracted, it is possible some small amount of fault could be assigned to you by the liable insurance company.

If a driver in a left-turn lane cut in front of another car before getting hit by a car running a red light, this person may be partially to blame for the crash.

It could be difficult to assign fault if both drivers claim they had a green light and there are no reliable witnesses or traffic cameras. However, reviewing the damage to the vehicles involved could help indicate the driver who may be at fault.

It is important to note Arizona allows you to recover compensation if you are partially to blame for a crash. Under the state’s comparative negligence law, your compensation award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Unlike some states, there is no threshold for fault that would bar you from seeking compensation. Technically, you could be 99 percent at fault and still recover some amount of compensation. In some states, if you bear more than a certain percentage of fault, you are barred from seeking compensation.

Documenting the Scene of the Crash

Make sure to report the crash to the police and wait for them to come to the scene to complete a report. If possible, take pictures at the scene and look for traffic cameras and/or witnesses. While the experienced attorneys at Phillips Law Group are ready to thoroughly investigate the crash, collecting evidence at the scene can be helpful. However, this should only be done if it is safe, and if you are physically able to do so.

Penalties for Running Red Lights in Arizona

In addition to being held liable for damages for a crash that results from running a red light, drivers can be fined up to $250, plus surcharges. They could also have two demerit points added to their driving record. The state requires those convicted of this offense to complete a traffic survival school course, but they can take a defensive driving course to get the ticket dismissed.

There are situations when running a red light could also lead to a conviction for reckless driving. If the crash takes another person’s life, the at-fault driver could be charged with vehicular homicide, which could result in significant criminal penalties.

Why Do Drivers Run Red Lights?

Sometimes drivers are simply reckless and think they will not get caught. They have places to go and think that is more important than following traffic laws.

There are various other reasons why drivers may run red lights:

Dangers of Running a Red Light

When we get behind the wheel, we expect other drivers to follow traffic laws, including laws about obeying red lights. If you get a green light, you hit the gas, almost without thinking about it. We do not expect a car to come through the intersection across our path.

The crash could occur at high speed and victims may have little to no time to react to brace themselves, stop or swerve to avoid a collision. This can result in a devastating crash, particularly because the side of a car is not built to withstand a collision like the front or back is.

If you run a red light, you have no idea when another car may come into the intersection, and you may be unable to avoid a crash.

Contact Phillips Law Group for Legal Help After a Red-Light Crash

Schedule a free legal consultation today to learn more about how we may be able to assist you. There are no upfront fees or legal obligations. Our attorneys do not get paid for our services unless our clients get paid, and we are ready to manage every step of the process on your behalf.

Our firm has secured hundreds of millions on behalf of our clients, many of whom were injured in motor vehicle crashes caused by negligent drivers.

Phillips Law Group is Here to Help. Call 602-222-2222 .