Traffic signals are designed to keep intersections safe and orderly. When they fail, confusion can set in quickly, leading to serious car accidents and complicated questions about fault. In Illinois, determining liability for accidents caused by malfunctioning traffic lights depends on the circumstances, including how the drivers responded and whether a government entity was negligent in maintaining the signal. Make sure to contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Chicago.
While each case is different, Illinois law typically requires drivers to exercise caution when a signal is not working. However, maintenance failures or negligent repairs can also play a role, meaning more than one party may share legal responsibility for the crash.
Fault When Traffic Signals Malfunction
When a traffic light isn’t working as it should, it can cause drivers to act unpredictably. According to state traffic law, intersections with non-functioning signals should be treated as four-way stops. Drivers must come to a complete stop and proceed only when it’s safe.
If a driver ignores this rule and causes a collision, they can be held at fault for failing to yield the right of way. On the other hand, if both drivers act reasonably and an accident still occurs, liability may not be as clear-cut. Evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and intersection camera footage can help clarify what happened in these situations.
However, not all traffic signal accidents result solely from driver error. Sometimes, technical or administrative negligence plays a role, such as if authorities knew about a problem but failed to fix it.
When Government Agencies May Be Liable
Local and state government entities in Illinois are generally responsible for maintaining traffic signals. If a signal malfunction is due to something like poor maintenance, the government and its contractor could share liability.
Potential scenarios include:
- A city agency failing to repair a reported outage in a reasonable timeframe
- A maintenance contractor installing defective wiring or components
- Outdated equipment causing frequent malfunctions
Filing a claim against a government body is more complicated than a standard insurance claim. Illinois imposes strict procedural rules under the Illinois Court of Claims Act, which includes shorter deadlines for filing notice of your intent to sue. A personal injury lawyer familiar with these rules can ensure that your claim is filed properly and within the correct timeframe.
Proving Legal Responsibility After a Traffic Signal Failure
Establishing fault in these cases often requires gathering multiple types of evidence. Key information may include:
- Traffic camera and dash cam footage showing driver behavior
- Maintenance logs from the city and contractor
- Eyewitness statements from others at the intersection
- Police reports detailing the scene and signal status
Expert witnesses may also be brought in to explain how the malfunction contributed to the crash. This evidence can help determine which party fault primarily lies with and can influence the value of your claim as well.
Contact an Illinois Car Accident Lawyer for Help After a Traffic Signal Crash
Crashes caused by traffic signal failures are often more complicated than ordinary collisions. Determining who’s responsible usually requires a careful investigation into both driver conduct and the maintenance of the traffic control system itself. Speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Chicago.
If you’ve been injured in this type of accident, you may be entitled to compensation from multiple parties. Contact Meyers & Flowers today at (630) 232-6333 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights and options. Our car accident lawyers are some of the most successful in the state, with billions won for our clients altogether.