New York City Red Light Accident Lawyer
Perhaps the most basic rule of the road in New York City is that you never run a red light. Even small children understand this concept. Yet on a daily basis, we still see drivers who speed through an intersection on red or otherwise ignore this most important of traffic signals–and the results are often catastrophic.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, over 1,100 people are killed and 127,000 more are injured each year in the United States in red light accidents. If you or someone in your family is among those victims, you are more than a statistic. You are a person who has sustained damages entitled to compensation under the law. Our New York City red light accident lawyer can help. Michael Gunzburg, P.C., is a dedicated NYC personal injury lawyer who serves clients throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens. We can review your red light accident and represent you in dealing with the negligent driver and their insurance company.
Red Light Accidents Are Dangerous–and Preventable
It should go without saying that running a red light is reckless and irresponsible behavior that puts other people in the intersection at risk. This includes not only other motorists, but also bicyclists and pedestrians who are trying to cross the road safely. What makes these events especially frustrating is that they are 100-percent preventable.
So why do New York City drivers run red lights? Here are a few common reasons:
- The driver was distracted by something else–their phone, talking to passengers, eating food, etc.–and not paying attention to the traffic light.
- The driver was speeding in a failed attempt to “beat” the red light.
- The driver attempted to make an illegal turn-on-red at the intersection.
- The driver was impaired by fatigue, alcohol, or drugs.
It is important to note that none of these reasons are excuses under the law. Ignoring a red light is not just a traffic violation, it is proof of the driver’s culpability in the event of an accident. Even under New York’s no-fault insurance rules, a driver who runs a red light may still be financially responsible if an accident victim suffers serious injuries that exceed the limits of their no-fault coverage.
Additionally, no-fault insurance does not apply to every type of red light accident. For example, a motorcyclist or electric scooter operator hit by a driver who runs a red light is typically not subject to no-fault rules. These victims may therefore always file a personal injury claim against the irresponsible motorist.
Let Our New York City Red Light Accident Lawyers Help You
The consequences of ignoring a red light or stop signal in New York City can be devastating for innocent victims and their families. If you are in this situation, it is critical to seek out timely legal advice from a qualified New York City red light accident attorney. Call Michael Gunzburg, P.C., at 212-725-8500 today to schedule a free initial consultation.