When approaching an intersection with a three-colored traffic signal, almost every driver understands that red means stop and green means go. However, there may be some confusion about the proper reaction to a yellow light.
A yellow signal is merely a warning that a light is changing from green to red, usually advising against crossing.
Many people view the yellow light as a reason to accelerate to get through the intersection before the light turns red. This action can be very risky, especially when drivers are turning.
If you suffered severe injuries or your loved one was killed in a yellow light accident in South Carolina, get help from a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you seek the compensation you need and deserve.
Jebaily Law Firm represents clients in Florence, Myrtle Beach, and many other nearby communities in South Carolina. Call us or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.
What Does a Yellow Light Mean When Driving in South Carolina?
South Carolina Code § 56-5-970(B) states that vehicles facing a steady yellow signal are warned that the green light is expiring and a red light will appear immediately after. Pedestrians are advised that there is insufficient time to cross the roadway.
Under South Carolina Code § 56-5-1000, a flashing yellow signal is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes. Drivers can proceed through intersections or past such signals with caution.
Common Types of Accidents During Yellow Lights
Certain kinds of accidents are commonly involved with yellow lights. Left-turn accidents, for example, very commonly occur at yellow lights.
Drivers who are waiting to turn left are often waiting for lights to turn yellow as a signal that oncoming traffic is about to stop for a red light. Some drivers proceed to turn left as soon as lights turn yellow while the oncoming drivers may have responded to the yellow lights by accelerating in such cases, causing a serious accident.
The driver turning left could be the party responsible for ensuring that they can complete their turn safely. An oncoming driver could be at fault, however, if they did proceed through a red light.
Another common kind of crash at a yellow light is the rear-end accident. One motorist could respond to a yellow light by stopping, but the driver behind them may have been inclined to accelerate. The difference in approaches could cause a collision.
Proving Liability in a Yellow Light Accident
Every yellow light accident is different, so it is in your best interest to get an attorney involved as soon as possible. The lawyer can conduct an independent investigation to determine the cause of the crash and also collect the evidence needed to prove the other driver was liable.
Did you sustain catastrophic injuries or was your loved one killed in a yellow light accident in South Carolina? You could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and many other kinds of damages.
Jebaily Law Firm has been helping car accident victims for Over 50 Years. Call us or contact us online to set up a free consultation.
