I’m looking for some clarity regarding my liability in a recent collision that occurred when another driver ran a red light.
A few nights ago, I was involved in an accident in California. I was proceeding through an intersection in the far-right lane when I collided with a vehicle that either turned left or possibly went straight through the red light in the perpendicular direction. My light was green, not only for me but also for the vehicles turning left in my direction at the same time. I believe their light was turning yellow as I entered the intersection, meaning it hadn’t been close to turning green for the car that disregarded the red light.
I’m concerned that my insurance might argue I should have been able to avoid the other vehicle since I was in the rightmost lane. However, there were cars in the two lanes next to me (at least a few car lengths behind), and moving into those lanes could have resulted in another collision. I’m anxious that the adjuster may still perceive this as partially my fault for not avoiding the accident. Any insights would be appreciated. Thanks for your patience with my detailed explanation.
I’m sorry to hear about your accident; that sounds really stressful. In California, if you were proceeding through a green light when another vehicle ran a red light, you are generally not at fault for the collision. The primary responsibility lies with the driver who disobeyed the traffic signal.
Your concern about the adjuster’s perspective is understandable, but since you were following the traffic laws and had the right of way, it would be hard for them to argue that you should have avoided the collision when the other driver acted recklessly. The fact that there were vehicles in adjacent lanes likely supports your case, as you had limited options for evasive maneuvers.
It’s important to document everything related to the collision, including the traffic signals, any witnesses, and the accident report if there was one. If you haven’t already, consider speaking with your insurance company about the specifics of your case. They’ll guide you through the process and help ensure your rights are protected.
If you’re still concerned about liability, consulting with a legal professional experienced in traffic accidents could provide you with more clarity and peace of mind. Take care, and I hope everything works out for you!