The individual or entity responsible for an accident caused by faulty traffic lights can vary based on the specific circumstances of the situation. To protect your rights and ensure you can collect compensation for your damages, work with a skillful New Jersey car accident lawyer for representation during your case.
What Causes Traffic Signals to Malfunction?
Traffic lights can malfunction due to a variety of factors. Consider some of the following common reasons.
- Bad weather like rain, snow, hail, lightning, etc.
- Vandalism
- Lack of maintenance
- Power surges
- Faulty wiring
- Damage from auto accidents
What is the Rule When Traffic Signals Stop Working in NJ?
Under New Jersey traffic laws, when a traffic signal at an intersection is not lit up or operating properly, all drivers are required to come to a complete stop. The intersection should be treated as an all-way stop, meaning all cars stop and yield to traffic. Each side should take turns moving through the intersection, using the same right-of-way rules that are utilized at four-way stops.
Who is Responsible for Accidents Caused by Faulty Traffic Lights?
Liability for a car accident caused by malfunctioning traffic lights can fall to various individuals or entities depending on why the signals stopped working and how the accident occured. Consider the following.
- A driver: Even though it is not their fault that the traffic light malfunctioned, a driver can still be held responsible for a resulting accident if they were negligent in their actions. All drivers are required to adapt to their environment and the situation to ensure the safe operation of their vehicles. If the driver failed to stop at the light, went when it was not their turn, or was otherwise behaving recklessly or negligently, they can face liability for the accident and damages.
- The local government: The local municipality has a legal responsibility to maintain and repair roads including traffic lights. If the government body responsible for this task failed to properly inspect or maintain the lights, or did not rectify a known problem, they could be held responsible for any ensuing accidents.
- The manufacturer: Responsibility also depends on why the traffic lights malfunctioned. If the product ceased working due to a design flaw or defect in the manufacturing process, the manufacturing company that designed or created the product could be liable for damages.
- A contractor: A contractor or company who was hired to do work on the traffic signals can also be held accountable for an accident if their negligence caused the faulty lights. If they fail to notice a mistake or issue during installation, maintenance, or when repairing the traffic lights, it could be considered negligent and they may be held responsible.
Depending on what caused the lights to stop working properly and how the accident happened, various individuals or entities could be held liable for a car accident and damages. Protecting your rights after the collision is of the utmost importance. Contact an experienced lawyer for representation and legal advice.
