Running Red Lights in West Lafayette: Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Traffic Signal Accident

Traffic signal violations remain one of the most dangerous driving behaviors in West Lafayette, particularly around busy intersections near Purdue University and the downtown district. When drivers disregard red lights or traffic signals, they create serious risks of T-bone collisions, rear-end crashes, and accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists. These crashes often result in severe injuries due to the high-speed impact and unexpected nature of the collision. For victims, the aftermath involves not only physical recovery but also complex insurance claims, potential loss of income, and significant medical expenses. Understanding how running red lights affects liability in personal injury cases is crucial, as Indiana law specifically addresses traffic signal violations and their role in establishing negligence. The presence of traffic cameras at major West Lafayette intersections can provide critical evidence in these cases, while factors like distracted driving or impaired driving may compound liability when combined with running a red light.

Legal Rights and Considerations: Indiana Code § 9-21-3-7 explicitly requires drivers to obey traffic control signals, with violations constituting prima facie evidence of negligence. Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system (IC § 34-51-2-6), meaning victims can recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date. Victims may be eligible for compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Indiana requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, though victims may need to explore underinsured motorist coverage if damages exceed these limits.

Red light running can be a cause of all kinds of injury accidents. Click the links below to get information from an experienced attorney for accidents and injuries including:

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Date: 
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Roadway: 
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Roadway: 
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Roadway: 
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Date: 
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