Blindsided by a Red-Light Runner: Building a Case Without Fault

When Someone Runs a Red Light, The Consequences Can Be Devastating

You’re driving cautiously, following the rules of the road, when suddenly—bam!—a reckless driver barrels through a red light and slams into your vehicle. These accidents happen in an instant, but the impact can last a lifetime. If you’ve been injured because of a red-light runner, you need to take immediate action to protect your rights.

At Scholle Law, we know that these cases are often clear-cut in terms of liability, but proving damages and securing full compensation can be challenging. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or offer lowball settlements—that’s where we step in.

Why Red-Light Accidents Are So Dangerous

A T-bone or side-impact collision caused by a red-light runner is one of the most dangerous types of crashes. Unlike rear-end or fender-bender accidents, T-bone crashes:

• Occur at high speeds, increasing injury severity.
• Directly impact the driver or passenger’s side, leading to serious head, spine, or internal injuries.
• Frequently involve intersection pile-ups, causing secondary crashes with other vehicles.
• Can result in rollovers, especially if the victim is hit by a larger vehicle like an SUV or truck.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 800 people die each year due to red-light running accidents. Even those who survive often suffer life-altering injuries.

How to Prove the Other Driver Ran a Red Light

In Georgia, a driver who runs a red light is almost always at fault. However, insurance companies often demand hard evidence before agreeing to pay full compensation. Our legal team at Scholle Law gathers the following proof:

✅ Traffic Camera & Surveillance Footage

Many intersections have red-light cameras that automatically capture video and photos of violators. If your accident occurred at a monitored intersection, this footage can be crucial in proving liability.

✅ Eyewitness Testimony

Bystanders, passengers, or other drivers at the intersection may have seen the red-light runner. We collect detailed witness statements to strengthen your case.

✅ Dashcam or Security Camera Footage

If you or another driver had a dashcam, this footage can conclusively show the other driver entering the intersection illegally.

✅ Skid Marks & Vehicle Damage Analysis

• Braking patterns (or lack of them) can indicate whether the at-fault driver made any attempt to stop.
• Vehicle impact locations can prove the angle of collision, consistent with a red-light violation.
• Debris field analysis helps accident reconstruction specialists confirm vehicle trajectories.

✅ Police Reports & Citations

If law enforcement responded to the crash and cited the other driver for running the red light, this serves as strong evidence.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of red-light running accidents often suffer serious financial and emotional burdens. At Scholle Law, we fight to recover compensation for:

🔹 Medical bills (emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation) 🔹 Lost income if you were unable to work due to your injuries 🔹 Pain and suffering, including emotional distress 🔹 Property damage (repair or Actual Cash Value of your vehicle) 🔹 Punitive damages, if the at-fault driver was engaging in reckless behavior, such as excessive speeding or DUI

We aggressively negotiate with insurers to secure full and fair compensation—and if they refuse, we take them to court.

Steps to Take If You Were Hit by a Red-Light Runner

Taking the right steps after a red-light accident can significantly impact the strength of your case:

1. Call 911 Immediately – A police report documenting the accident is critical.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like concussions or internal damage) may not appear right away.
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of the intersection, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any traffic cameras.
4. Gather Witness Contact Information – Their statements can make a big difference in proving fault.
5. Do Not Discuss the Accident With the Other Driver’s Insurance – Insurers may twist your words to reduce or deny your claim.
6. Contact Scholle Law – Our legal team will handle everything, from obtaining evidence to negotiating your settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I still file a claim if the red-light runner fled the scene?

Yes. If the driver was never identified, you may still have options. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may provide compensation. We can help you file a claim and ensure your insurance company honors their policy.

❓ What if the other driver claims the light was yellow or green?

This is why evidence is crucial. Traffic cameras, eyewitnesses, and accident reconstruction experts can help prove what really happened.

❓ Will my case go to trial?

Most personal injury claims settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for maximum compensation.

❓ How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?

Georgia law generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, the sooner you act, the better your chances of securing critical evidence.

Call Scholle Law Today

If you were injured by a red-light runner, don’t let the insurance companies dictate your future. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or fill out the contact form on this page to schedule your free consultation.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.

Let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.