You probably don’t need to be told that car accidents are stressful, especially when they happen because someone ran a red light. When a driver breaks a traffic rule and causes a crash, they are usually responsible for the damage. If they have auto insurance, their insurance company will typically be the one that pays for the losses.
Figuring out which insurance company should pay for your damages can be confusing, and dealing with adjusters can be frustrating. A good attorney can guide you through the process and handle the negotiations for you. If you were injured by a driver who ran a red light, the Virginia Beach car accident lawyers at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can answer your questions. Call us today to schedule your free case review.
Driving Aggressively
Drivers run red lights for many different reasons, both on purpose and by mistake. One common reason is that a driver is in a hurry, gets impatient, and starts driving aggressively. Choosing to go through a red light instead of waiting can easily cause a serious crash and leave other people with severe, life-changing injuries.
Distracted Driving
One of the biggest problems on the road is distracted driving. This means driving while your focus is on something other than the task at hand. Even though Virginia law limits cell phone use while driving, many people still look at or use their phones. When they are distracted, they may even jump a red light without even realizing it.
Passengers in a car can also distract a driver. This can be hard to prove after a crash, but it does happen. Some states have special rules that limit how many passengers beginner drivers can carry. Checking the local traffic laws can help show whether or not the other driver was acting irresponsibly.
Road and Weather Conditions
Road conditions can also play a role in red-light accidents. As fall and winter arrive, roads may become more slippery because of wet leaves, rain, snow, or ice. These hazards can make it harder for drivers to stop in time at a red light…