Legal Options for Victims of Red Light Running Accidents

When someone runs a red light, they do more than violate traffic laws. They put innocent lives in danger. In just seconds, a routine trip can turn into a catastrophic collision, resulting in serious injuries, loss of life, and devastating financial consequences.

If you or a loved one was injured because another driver ignored a red light, you have rights, and you may be entitled to compensation. This in-depth guide breaks down the full range of legal options for red-light-running accident cases, including insurance claims, lawsuits, settlement strategies, and wrongful death actions.

A red light running accident happens when a driver enters an intersection after the traffic signal has already turned red. This typically results in a T-bone or side-impact collision, but it can also involve head-on crashes, pedestrian strikes, and multi-car pileups.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), more than 900 people die annually in red-light crashes, and over 140,000 are injured, many of them not violators. The majority of people hurt or killed are innocent drivers, passengers, cyclists, or pedestrians.

Red light accidents are particularly severe because:

In most cases, the driver who ran the red light is clearly at fault. Running a red light is a direct violation of traffic law and is considered negligent behavior. But in some situations, fault may be shared or contested:

Victims of red light collisions often suffer from:

Now let’s break down the legal strategies and rights available after a red light accident:

1. File a Claim With the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

This is the most common first step. Texas is an at-fault state, so the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible. Their insurance should cover:

However, insurers often delay, deny, or lowball claims, which is where legal help becomes essential.

2. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

A lawsuit puts legal pressure on the responsible party to pay what you’re owed, often resulting in higher compensation.

3. Use Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance or flees the scene, you can turn to your own UM/UIM policy. This coverage is optional in Texas but can be a lifesaver in hit-and-run scenarios.

4. File a Claim for Property Damage

The at-fault party’s insurance may cover your vehicle and possessions inside, or your collision policy may provide coverage.

5. Seek a Wrongful Death Claim (If Applicable)

If your loved one passed away due to the crash, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Texas allows spouses, parents, and children to seek:

 Always prioritize your health. Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent.

 File a police report. It creates an official record that will be useful for your claim.

 Take photos of the crash, injuries, and damage. Collect names and contact info from witnesses.

 Before speaking with insurers, consult a personal injury attorney who can guide you.

 Work with your lawyer to file insurance claims or initiate legal proceedings.