Legal Question in Traffic Law in New York

runiing a red light and causing an accident

I was at a stop sign turning left onto a main road. There was a light app.35-40 ft to my left controlling a seperate intersection. Before I turned left i saw a vehicle appraoching the light that had turned from yelow to red. I looked to my right it was clear to make the turn. As i go back to look to my left and finish my turn the vehicle that was approaching the ligh actually ran it. He hit me,,,,,My question is is this my fault even though i saw the vehicle approach the light when itwas red. Also if i was making a right and he ran into the back of me who's fault would it be? Again i was on a street that wa sonly 35-40 ft from the light that was ran.


Asked on 5/17/07, 7:28 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Gueli Law Offices of Charles R. Gueli

Re: runiing a red light and causing an accident

Unfortunately, the insurance companies will place most of the liability on you. Assuming the other driver will not admit to running the red light, it will be your word against his/hers. Since s/he was traveling straight and you were turning, the presumption is that s/he had the right of way.

You did not mention if there are any INDEPENDENT witnesses (bystanders, not other people in your car). This may change the liability outlook if s/he will confirm your version.

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Answered on 5/18/07, 10:19 am


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