If you encounter a traffic light that’s not working, you may find yourself wondering what to do when a traffic light is out. Here’s the answer from our experienced Long Island car accident lawyers. According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, you must stop at the intersection with an out-of-service traffic light the same way you would stop at a stop sign. You may proceed through the intersection according to the rules of right-of-way. If a traffic officer is directing traffic, you must follow their instructions.
For a free legal consultation, call 631-451-7900
What Are the Right-of-Way Rules for a Stop Sign?
According to New York traffic laws, when you are stopped at a broken traffic signal, you must give the right-of-way according to the rules for stop signs. When more than one vehicle stops at stop signs at the same time at right angles to each other, the driver on the left must yield and the driver on the right has the right-of-way.
Are There Any Exceptions to These Rules?
Follow the instructions of traffic officers over traffic lights, and proceed cautiously through intersections if no cars are approaching, while yielding to pedestrians.
What Do I Do When Traffic Signals Are Flashing?
If a traffic signal has flashing red or yellow lights, these mean two different things. If it is flashing red, treat it like a stop sign. Come to a complete stop and follow right-of-way rules when two or more cars are stopped. If the traffic light is flashing yellow, it means you should drive with caution. Always look for police officers directing traffic and other vehicles before proceeding through a flashing yellow or red light.
What If There Are No Traffic Signs or Signals at All?
In rare cases, you may encounter an intersection with no traffic signs or signals at all. In this situation, it becomes an “uncontrolled” intersection where all drivers must use caution and yield according to the basic right-of-way laws. This means that you should slow down and yield to any vehicles already in the intersection and give right-of-way to vehicles on your right if you arrive at the same time.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to following traffic laws, it’s also important to use common sense and caution when approaching an intersection with a broken traffic signal. If there is heavy traffic or inclement weather conditions, it is safest to treat the intersection as a four-way stop and proceed with extra caution.
It’s also essential to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially if they are not stopping properly at the intersection. And always remember to pay attention and never assume that other drivers will follow the right-of-way rules correctly.
Who Is To Blame for an Accident at an Intersection With a Broken Traffic Light in New York?
In the event of an accident at an intersection with a broken traffic light, it may be difficult to determine who is at fault. In general, the driver who failed to obey a yield sign or stop properly would likely be held responsible for the accident. However, if other factors were involved, such as distracted driving or speeding, both parties could share responsibility.
Always follow traffic laws and use caution when approaching intersections with out-of-service signals. And in case of an accident, it’s best to seek legal advice from experienced car accident lawyers to determine your rights and options. They can help you navigate through insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings.
Am I Entitled to Compensation After My Collision Due to a Traffic Light Outage?
The legal team at Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. is just a call away. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you were involved in a car crash or suffered injuries or losses in a collision.
A traffic collision at an intersection with non-functioning lights might appear to be a gray area, but New York law is clear: drivers must come to a complete stop at such intersections. If you have grounds for a claim, we can help you file for damages and compensation.
