When all four points of an intersection display still green lights, blinking yellow lights, or no lights at all, it may create great confusion amongst all present drivers. This confusion may undoubtedly lead to an increased possibility of car collisions. So should you ever approach a malfunctioning signal, you must try your best to navigate the situation safely. For this, please read on to discover what to do if you encounter a faulty traffic signal at a major intersection and how a seasoned St. Mary’s County car accident lawyer at The Dorsey Law Firm can help if you experience an unfortunate aftermath.
What should I do if I encounter a faulty traffic signal at an intersection?
A faulty traffic signal will likely cause some traffic buildup. So if you can identify it from a distance away, you may consider safely maneuvering to an alternate route with working signals. But if you cannot, you should treat a major intersection with a malfunctioning signal similarly to a standard four-way stop. This may mean taking the following approach:
- Have your vehicle come to a complete stop at the stop line or before a crosswalk.
- Yield to any vehicles that approached the front of the intersection before you.
- Look at all three points of opposing direction for potential vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
- Use the necessary turn signals and slowly move your vehicle forward and across the intersection.
Once you get through this intersection, we encourage you to pull over safely and report the issue to your local authorities. This way, an officer may arrive at the intersection to direct traffic while the traffic signal gets fixed. Hopefully, this will prevent an auto accident.
How long do I have to sue for an accident caused by a faulty traffic signal?
You may assume that a local government entity is to blame for the existence of a faulty traffic signal. They are responsible for installing backup power systems or employing contractors for necessary maintenance and repairs. Therefore, you may consider suing them for the auto accident you entered as a direct result.
Before filing your personal injury claim, though, you must submit a formal notice of claim. As the name suggests, this is essentially a “heads up” that you intend to file a legal claim against them soon. Well, in the state of Maryland, you must submit this notice of claim within 180 days, or six months, of your auto accident event.
Once you do so, you may follow the standard statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland. Specifically, this is three years from your auto accident event date. Of note, you do not necessarily have to go through with a lawsuit after filing your notice of claim; it simply preserves your right to do so. But we encourage you to move forward if you require financial compensation in any capacity.
If you require legal representation, look no further than a competent St. Mary’s County auto accident lawyer. The client testimonials on our website speak for themselves, saying that you will not regret hiring the team at The Dorsey Law Firm.
