Robert M. Hammers | November 11, 2024 | Car Accidents
The main goal of installing traffic and red light cameras in Atlanta is to reduce the number of crashes at signaled intersections. Red light running crashes cause about 800 traffic deaths every year in the United States.
In Georgia, there are approximately 5,200 red light running accidents, resulting in an average of 25 deaths and 3,800 people with injuries every year.
How Do Atlanta Traffic and Red Light Cameras Work?
According to the Georgia Code, a government entity must file an application and hold a public hearing before it installs a red light camera. The application must identify the intersection for the proposed camera and provide evidence of why a device is needed at this location, such as if there is a high number of red light accidents at that particular location.
In Georgia, traffic and red light cameras do not take pictures of drivers. Instead, these cameras capture a vehicle’s license plate number, which law enforcement uses to identify the driver who ran the red light. Based on this information, a law enforcement agency can issue a traffic ticket to the vehicle’s owner.
Common Causes of Red Light Crashes in Atlanta, GA
Driver negligence is the most common cause of accidents at red lights. Common reasons for red light crashes include:
- Speeding
- Trying to “beat” a yellow light
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Distracted driving
- Illegal lane changes and U-turns
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving and road rage
- Fatigued and drowsy driving
A person who causes a red light accident can be held financially responsible for damages caused by the crash. Before receiving compensation for damages, the victim must prove that the other driver caused the accident.
Using Traffic and Red Light Camera Evidence in a Personal Injury Case
Traffic and red light cameras capture vehicles speeding, running red lights, or otherwise breaking traffic laws. These cameras can provide proof of negligence for a personal injury claim.
However, the recordings may not be preserved for more than a few weeks or months. Therefore, contact an Atlanta car accident lawyer quickly to discuss how to obtain and preserve evidence from traffic and red light cameras.
How Do You Prove Negligence for a Red Light Traffic Accident?
Proving negligence requires you to have evidence proving the following:
Duty of Care
The driver who allegedly caused the accident owed you a legal duty of care. All drivers have a duty to follow Georgia traffic laws and use reasonable care when operating a motor vehicle.
Breach of Duty
The driver did something that breached the duty of care. For example, a driver who runs a red light or makes an illegal U-turn has breached their duty of care.
Causation
The driver’s conduct was the direct and proximate cause of the red light accident. For example, the accident would not have occurred if it had not been for the driver running the red light. Furthermore, the driver could reasonably foresee that running a red light could cause an accident.
Damages
You must have sustained damages because of the accident. Damages include physical injuries, emotional injuries, and financial losses.
What Damages Are Available for a Red Light Accident in Atlanta, GA?
Accident victims can seek compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. Damages in a car accident case include, but are not limited to:
- Impairments and disabilities
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Lost wages and benefits
- Diminished earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment of life and quality of life
- Medical expenses and bills
- Rehabilitative care and therapy
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Long-term care
The amount you receive for a red light accident depends on your injuries and other damages. If you were involved in an accident, do not admit fault. Instead, tell the officer the truth without making assumptions about fault.
If you contributed to the cause of a red light accident, the court could reduce your compensation according to your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 50% or more to blame for the accident, you will be barred from receiving any money for your claim.
Contact the Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers at Hammers Law Firm Today
For more information, contact the Atlanta car accident law firm of Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation. We have convenient locations in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Mableton, Smyrna, and Roswell.
We serve Fulton County and its surrounding areas:
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312,
Atlanta, GA 30314
(770) 900-9000
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Sandy Springs
5555 Glenridge Con, Suite 975,
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
(678) 605-9838
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Lawrenceville
265 Culver St S. Suite A.
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(678) 916-8584
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
5701 Mableton Pkwy SW Suite 108,
Mableton, GA 30126
(706) 480-5487
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
2400 Herodian Way Ste#220,
Smyrna, GA 30080
(678) 922-4497
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
110 Mansell Cir #111,
Roswell, GA 30075
(678) 582-8466