"Due to a traffic light malfunction near LA Live, a multi-car accident occurred. Given this unexpected technical error, who is responsible?"
Last Thursday evening, while I was driving downtown, I approached the intersection near LA Live and noticed that the traffic lights were not working correctly. All lights seemed to flash simultaneously, causing confusion and leading to a pile-up involving four vehicles. Thankfully, no severe injuries were reported. I've never encountered such a situation, and it has raised a lot of questions for me:
- Who is typically held liable in situations where traffic control devices malfunction, leading to accidents?
- What kind of lawyer should I seek out to address this?
- How can I ensure the attorney I choose is skilled in handling such cases, and what might it cost?
Additionally, I found a camera at that intersection. Can that footage be used to support claims in such situations?
Commonly posted questions...
Legal Solution
The response provided below is specific to Automobile accident attorneys in the jurisdiction of Los Angeles. If the response is inadequate, please submit a detailed inquiry.
Understanding Liability in Traffic Control Malfunctions
Accidents arising from traffic control malfunctions are not unheard of in large cities. The primary concern is determining the liable party, whether it's the city for improper maintenance or a third-party contractor responsible for the device's upkeep.
California's Relevant Traffic Regulations:
- California Vehicle Code Section 21450-21468 - Traffic Signals and Devices
- For general information, you can refer to California's DMV Website
Possible Solutions to Address the Issue:
In cases where a traffic control malfunction has led to an accident, the injured parties can file a claim against the city or county if they believe the malfunction was due to negligence in maintenance. This process would start by notifying the appropriate municipal or county entity about the incident. It might also be beneficial to gather evidence, such as pictures, eyewitness accounts, and as you mentioned, camera footage from the intersection. For more details, you can check California's official government website.
Estimated Legal Fees in California:
| Service | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation | $150 - $300 |
| Case investigation | $500 - $2000 |
| Full representation | $3000 - $10,000 |
| Out-of-court settlement | $1500 - $5000 |
| Trial representation | $5000 - $25,000 |
Remember, legal fees can vary based on the lawyer's expertise, case complexity, and the area within California.
Further Clarifications & Next Steps:
If you believe that the malfunctioning traffic light was the primary cause of the accident, it's crucial to act promptly. Document the scene, gather eyewitness accounts, and consult with a lawyer to discuss your options.
Are you ready to take the next step? Find the right lawyer to guide you through the process.
Relevant Questions for Consideration:
- Were there any witnesses at the scene who can attest to the malfunctioning lights?
- Was there any maintenance or construction ongoing at or near the intersection that might have contributed to the malfunction?
- How soon after the accident did you notice the malfunction?
Q1: What if the city denies responsibility for the malfunctioning traffic light?
In cases where the city denies liability, evidence will play a crucial role. This includes photos, videos, and eyewitness accounts. An experienced attorney can help present this evidence in the best possible light to strengthen your case.
Q2: How long do I have to file a claim against the city for damages?
Typically, you have six months from the date of the accident to file a claim against a city or county in California. However, it's best to act promptly and consult with an attorney to ensure all deadlines are met.
Q3: Can I claim for damages even if I wasn't injured, but my car was damaged?
Yes, you can claim for property damage, which includes damages to your vehicle.
Q4: Are there any caps on the amount I can claim from the city?
Claims against government entities may have caps or limits on the amount you can recover. It's essential to discuss this with your attorney to understand potential compensation.
Q5: Can other affected parties and I file a joint lawsuit against the responsible entity?
Yes, affected parties can come together for a joint lawsuit. This is often termed as a class-action lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, this may or may not be the best approach, so it's crucial to consult with an attorney.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It's always recommended to consult with a local attorney about your specific situation.Written, answered, changed
Legal question "Traffic Light Glitch causing Accident near LA Live: Who's Liable?" has been changed 1 week 6 days ago. Demonstrate your legal skills and willingness to help and answer right now! Issue is related to the location of Los Angeles & area of law: Automobile accident attorneys.When should you seek a personal injury lawyer? Car accident attorney will be needed in the event of traffic accidents that lead to serious injuries or long-term medical treatment of those involved. Choosing an experienced attorney will help increase the chances that you get the compensation that you deserve. By hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you immediately after a car accident, you will have a professional working for you – one who is very knowledgeable about the specific field of law and procedural rules that may significantly affect your case.
An indicator of the skills of a particular injury lawyer is the fact how many lawsuits he/she has won as well as careful pre-court preparation and possibly also the process of negotiation with the counterparty. In the case of car accidents where there are problems related to limits for car insurance, lawyers may threaten to file a suit. However, in most cases, an out-of-court settlement can be reached between the parties. Why should you hire a car accident attorney? Underestimating such a decision may result in considerable financial loss, especially in the event that you or the other party (the participant of the accident) have inadequate insurance coverage and the insurance company thus does not pay the claim.
