Yellow Traffic Lights & Intersection Accidents

When the traffic light changes to yellow, drivers must quickly decide whether to stop or continue on. This stop or continue dilemma seems intuitive: when the lights turns to yellow, a driver should stop unless it is unsafe to do so. In general, we do not want motorists slamming on their brakes, even for a yellow light.

However, the proper action to take at a yellow light is dictated by state law. This means there is no nationwide standard, which makes yellow lights, and intersections in general, danger zones for car accidents.

Florida law states that a yellow light warns drivers that “the related green movement is being terminated or that a red indication will be exhibited immediately thereafter when vehicular traffic shall not enter the intersection.” S 316.075 Fla. Stat. (2016). Therefore, it is not illegal to drive through a yellow light.

A yellow light puts a driver on notice that the light is about to turn red. It is up to the driver to decide whether it is safer to proceed through the yellow light or to stop and wait for the light to turn green. This split-second decision may very well be the difference between arriving at one’s destination safety or ending up in a collision with another driver.

Our best advice is to always approach intersections cautiously. You may be driving behind a car that will slam on the brakes to stop before the light turns red. If you’re not careful, you could rear-end the driver’s car who slams on the brakes. Also, use caution when entering into an intersection when your light turns green. Other vehicles may not get through their light before it turns red.

For more helpful information, read our other articles:

• I Was Injured In A Car Accident, How Do I Know If The Other Driver Was Negligent or Reckless?
• 5 Tips For Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Car Crash
• What “You May be Entitled To Compensation” Means

If you have questions about an intersection accident or accident liability, give us a call at 866-767-4711 to schedule a free consultation.

Recovery For Your Injuries

Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are on the roads, sometimes accidents happen. The attorneys at Draper Law Office can help you in the recovery of property damage to your vehicle, as well as for medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. In the case of serious injury, we can help you recover damages you may also be entitled to, including pain and suffering, physical impairment, scarring, disfigurement, and diminished capacity for the enjoyment of life.

Contact Draper Law Office today to find out exactly what you and your loved ones are entitled to after a motor vehicle accident in the Central Florida area. Our offices are conveniently located in Orlando, and Kissimmee to best serve you.

For more information about your legal rights after an auto accident, call us now at 866-767-4711 or contact us through our online contact form.