What Are the Rules When Traffic Lights Are Out in Westchester County or NYC?

Power outages or malfunctioning traffic signals can create confusion and danger at intersections, especially in busy areas like Yonkers, White Plains, or the bustling streets of New York City. When a traffic signal isn’t working, knowing the law can make all the difference in avoiding accidents and keeping everyone safe.

At the Law Offices of Norman Gershon, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the legal and financial challenges that can arise from traffic light-related accidents. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and protect your rights.

What to Do When Traffic Lights Are Out

When you approach an intersection where the traffic signal is not functioning, New York law requires you to treat it as a four-way stop. This means:

1. Stop Completely: Come to a full stop at the intersection.
2. Yield to the Right: Allow vehicles to proceed in the order of arrival, giving the right of way to the driver on your right if you arrive simultaneously.
3. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Always yield to pedestrians, as they retain the right of way even when signals are out.

This rule is outlined in Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1111 and is essential for maintaining order and safety. Drivers who fail to follow this guideline not only put themselves and others at risk but may also face tickets, fines, or legal liability.

The Importance of Caution at Malfunctioning Intersections

Traffic signals are critical to managing the flow of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, particularly in densely populated areas like NYC or major Westchester County intersections. When signals fail:

• Confusion Increases: Drivers may misinterpret who has the right of way.
• Accidents Are More Likely: Misjudgments or impatience can lead to rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, or pedestrian accidents.
• Legal Consequences Arise: Failing to stop and yield as required can result in citations and liability for any resulting damages or injuries.

If you’re ever uncertain, the best practice is to stop, assess the situation, and proceed with caution.

Common Accidents at Intersections with Non-Functioning Lights

When traffic signals are out, several types of collisions are more likely to occur:

• Rear-End Collisions: Drivers may stop abruptly, leading to crashes from behind.
• Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Accidents): These occur when one driver fails to yield and another vehicle collides with their side.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Without clear signals, pedestrians may assume it’s safe to cross, putting them at risk of being struck by uncertain or distracted drivers.

In high-traffic areas like Yonkers or near major shopping centers in White Plains, these accidents can have severe consequences. Exercising patience and vigilance is crucial.

How to Seek Compensation After a Traffic Light-Related Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a non-functioning traffic light, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. Common claims include:

• Medical Expenses: Covering treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, or ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Recovering income lost due to your inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensating for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Establishing Liability

Proving fault in these cases can be challenging, as multiple drivers may share responsibility for failing to follow proper procedures. Evidence such as:

• Police Reports: Officers often document fault and issue citations.
• Eyewitness Statements: Observations from other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians can clarify what happened.
• Accident Scene Evidence: Photos, skid marks, and debris patterns can help reconstruct the sequence of events.

At the Law Offices of Norman Gershon, we have extensive experience gathering and presenting the evidence needed to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of an accident caused by a traffic signal outage can be complex. Liability may be shared among multiple parties, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our team at the Law Offices of Norman Gershon will:

• Investigate the details of your case.
• Collect and preserve critical evidence.
• Negotiate with insurers to ensure fair compensation.

With over 35 years of experience representing accident victims in Westchester County and NYC, we understand the challenges you face and are committed to protecting your rights.

Contact the Law Offices of Norman Gershon Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident at an intersection where traffic lights were out, don’t face the legal and financial challenges alone. Contact our White Plains office at (914) 485-1444 for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.