Understanding Fault in Yellow Light Accidents

From the time you’re taught to drive, you learn what each traffic light means. Green means go, yellow means slow, and red means stop. Even so, many drivers are still unsure exactly what they should do when the light turns yellow.

Generally, a yellow light is a warning that the light is about to turn red. Once the light has turned red, it’s illegal to proceed into an intersection.

It can be difficult to determine fault in car accidents involving yellow lights in Florida. For Florida drivers, understanding how yellow light collisions happen and who can be held responsible for them is crucial. 

Common Types of Yellow Light Collisions

Several kinds of accidents can occur at yellow lights, depending on the circumstances. Some of these common scenarios include:

• A driver stops at the light and is hit from behind by a driver that fails to stop
• A driver hits a pedestrian crossing an intersection with a yellow light 
• A driver making a left turn at an intersection fails to give an oncoming driver the right-of-way

How a yellow light accident happens plays a key role in determining the fault for the crash.

Fault for Yellow Light Accidents

Every accident case is unique. Therefore, fault can look different in each collision case, as several factors can play a role. There are some general guidelines, however, that can apply to many cases. 

For example, the fault for rear-end collisions usually lies with the rear driver, as they are often speeding or distracted. Consequently, a rear-end yellow light accident is also often the fault of the rear driver.

Drivers making left turns must yield to oncoming traffic, even when the light turns yellow. But fault could lie with either the turning driver or the oncoming driver, depending on the situation. 

Pedestrians who enter an intersection when the light is yellow may share some fault in their accident, so while they could still collect damages, these damages may be reduced.

A Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Yellow light accidents can be tricky to navigate. For this reason, it’s best to seek legal guidance from a seasoned car accident lawyer. 

If you were involved in a yellow light collision, call Shrader Mendez & O’Connell at ​​813-360-1529, or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.