Los Angeles Red Light Accident Lawyer

Red light crashes happen every day across Los Angeles County, from busy intersections in Van Nuys and Sherman Oaks to major corridors in Palmdale and Lancaster. These collisions often cause serious injuries, medical expenses, and disruption to victims’ lives.
Prestige Law Firm P.C. has over two decades of experience representing red light accident victims across Los Angeles. If you were injured in an intersection crash, our attorneys can evaluate your case and explain your legal options during a consultation.

Los Angeles Red Light Accident Attorneys

1 min read

Red light crashes in LA cause severe injuries and deaths every year. Prestige Law Firm P.C. represents injury victims and families with over 20 years’ experience.
We handle the legal aspects of the claim, gathering evidence, coordinating documentation related to medical treatment, negotiating with insurers, and, when appropriate, pursuing litigation. With attorney involvement throughout the case and experience with insurance claim practices, we advocate for our clients’ legal rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and, where applicable, wrongful death claims.

What Is the California Red Light Law?

Under California Vehicle Code § 21453, drivers approaching a steady circular red signal must stop at the limit line, before the crosswalk, or at the entrance to the intersection. Proceeding through a red light without stopping is a violation of California traffic law and is one of the leading causes of serious collisions and intersection crashes.The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also makes clear how drivers must act at different red signals:

Red arrow

Drivers must remain stopped until a green signal or green arrow allows them to proceed. Ignoring this often leads to side-impact collisions in intersections.

Flashing red light

Drivers must stop completely, then may proceed only when it is safe. Many rural intersections in Southern California, including areas of Palmdale and Lancaster, use flashing red signals where right-of-way disputes often arise.

There are limited exceptions where a driver may proceed after stopping:

Right turns on red

Allowed unless a sign prohibits it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.

Left turns from a one-way street onto another one-way street

Permitted after a complete stop, provided there are no posted restrictions and it is safe.

Other California Laws That Affect Red Light Accident Cases

While § 21453 is the cornerstone statute, several other California Vehicle Code sections are often applied when determining fault and liability in red light crash cases:

§ 21800

This law sets out who has the right-of-way when two or more vehicles approach an intersection. It becomes critical in red light crashes when both drivers insist the other ran the signal.

§ 21801

Drivers turning left or making U-turns must yield to oncoming traffic until it is safe to turn. A frequent scenario is when a driver turns left on a red arrow and collides with a vehicle lawfully proceeding through the intersection.

§ 22107

No driver may turn a vehicle until it is safe and must always signal appropriately. In red light accident claims, insurers often point to this law when arguing that a driver made a sudden or unsafe turn without checking for traffic.

§ 22350

This statute prohibits driving faster than is “reasonable or prudent” given current traffic, visibility, and road conditions.

§ 23152

It is unlawful to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If a driver runs a red light while impaired, they face both criminal prosecution and enhanced civil liability in any personal injury lawsuit.

§ 27315

All vehicle occupants must wear seat belts. While a victim’s failure to buckle up does not excuse the negligent driver, insurance companies often cite § 27315 to argue for reduced damages in injury claims.

§ 20008

Drivers involved in crashes causing injury or death must file a written report with law enforcement within 24 hours. Common carriers have extended deadlines.

Finally, victims must act within the legal deadlines. Under the California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation.

Why These Laws Matter in Your Case?

Although every California driver is tested on these rules when applying for a license, many fail to follow them in practice. In Los Angeles red light accident cases, these statutes provide the foundation for proving negligence and holding the at-fault driver accountable.
At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we use these legal codes, together with evidence such as red light camera footage, police reports, and eyewitness testimony, to build strong claims and pursue recovery supported by the evidence.

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Types of Car Accidents Resulting From Running a Red Light

When drivers ignore red lights, the consequences can be severe. Our attorneys have handled many different types of collisions caused by red light violations, including:

Rollover Accidents

The force of a side-impact or high-speed collision can cause a vehicle, especially an SUV or smaller car, to roll onto its side or roof. Rollovers often occur on wide Los Angeles arterials where drivers accelerate to beat red lights.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Los Angeles’ dense pedestrian traffic dramatically increases risk when drivers ignore traffic signals. A red light violator can strike a person lawfully crossing in a marked crosswalk, especially in high-foot-traffic areas such as Hollywood Boulevard & Highland Avenue or Sunset Boulevard & La Brea Avenue. These accidents frequently result in life-altering or fatal injuries.

Motorcycle Collisions

Motorcyclists are at extreme risk in intersection accidents. A red light violator striking a motorcycle can lead to catastrophic injuries, as riders lack the protection of a vehicle frame.
Our car accident attorneys at Prestige Law Firm P.C. are here to help you understand your options.

Underride Crashes

When a passenger vehicle illegally enters an intersection and collides with a large truck or tractor-trailer, it may become lodged underneath the larger vehicle. These crashes are more likely near commercial corridors and freight routes throughout Los Angeles County.

T-Bone Collisions (Side-Impact Crashes)

Side-impact crashes are one of the most frequent and destructive results of running a red light. A driver entering an intersection against the signal can slam into the side of another vehicle traveling lawfully through, leaving little time to react. These crashes are common at intersections like Victory Boulevard & Van Nuys Boulevard and Roscoe Boulevard & Reseda Boulevard, where multiple lanes and turning movements increase exposure

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

In dense traffic, a single red light violation can quickly escalate. One collision triggers secondary impacts, injuring occupants in several vehicles. This is common along heavily traveled corridors such as Sepulveda Boulevard & Ventura Boulevard, particularly during rush hour.
Pileups often involve:

Multiple drivers and passengers with competing injury claims
Disputes over fault and sequence of impacts
Greater insurance and litigation complexity

Rear-End Collisions

Red light violations don’t always result in side-impact crashes. Drivers who brake suddenly to avoid a vehicle running a red light may be struck from behind, particularly near left-turn pockets or congested intersections like Van Nuys Boulevard & Sherman Way.
While often dismissed as minor, rear-end collisions can cause serious neck, back, and spinal injuries.

Compensation for Red Light Accident Victims

When a driver runs a red light and causes a crash, they are legally responsible for the harm that follows. Victims may be entitled to compensation for both the financial losses tied to the accident and the physical and emotional toll that disrupts their lives.
Our Los Angeles red light accident lawyers calculate damages comprehensively, working to identify applicable categories of damages based on the facts.

1

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover measurable financial losses, including:
Emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgery, and follow-up care
Prescription medications, medical devices, and mobility equipment
Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment plans
In-home care, child care, or household assistance during recovery
Lost wages, missed bonuses, and employment benefits
Reduced earning capacity if injuries limit future work opportunities

Example:
A driver injured in a T-bone collision at a busy Los Angeles intersection may face a $90,000 hospital bill, months of physical therapy, and six months of lost income, losses that may be recoverable as economic damages, depending on the facts and applicable law.
Our attorneys routinely work with financial and vocational experts to project future medical needs and income loss. In Los Angeles, where income levels and living costs vary significantly, this expert analysis can help support a damages assessment and settlement discussions.

2

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the human impact of a red light accident, losses that do not come with receipts, but deeply affect daily life:

Physical pain and ongoing discomfort
Emotional distress, anxiety, or fear of driving
Loss of enjoyment of normal activities or independence
Strain on personal relationships and loss of companionship
Long-term psychological effects, including PTSDExample:
A pedestrian struck while legally crossing at a signal may develop chronic pain and anxiety that prevents them from driving, working, or enjoying daily activities, harm that qualifies for non-economic compensation even without a direct financial bill attached.
Our lawyers support these claims with medical documentation, psychological evaluations, expert testimony, and your personal story to ensure these losses are fully recognized.Let our Los Angeles red light accident lawyers advocate for your legal rights and pursue compensation supported by the evidence. Contact Prestige Law Firm P.C. today for a free consultation and case review.

Common Injuries From Red Light Accidents

Prestige Law Firm P.C. frequently represents clients suffering from:

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

The violent back-and-forth motion of the head during a crash can strain or tear muscles and ligaments in the neck.

Fractures and Broken Bones

The force of impact in T-bone or multi-vehicle crashes can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, or collarbone. Some fractures require surgery, implants, and months of rehabilitation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Victims may suffer anything from mild concussions to severe brain trauma. TBIs often result in memory problems, difficulty concentrating, personality changes, or long-term disability.

Spinal Cord Injuries

A hard side-impact or rollover crash may damage the spine, leading to partial or total paralysis.

Amputations and Loss of Limb

High-speed red light accidents, especially those involving trucks or rollovers, can cause traumatic amputations. In other cases, doctors may be forced to amputate a severely damaged limb to save the victim’s life.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys.

Psychological Trauma

Beyond physical harm, many victims experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, or recurring nightmares after a violent intersection crash.

Wrongful Death

Some red light accidents result in fatal injuries. Families may pursue wrongful death claims under California law for losses such as funeral expenses, financial support, and loss of companionship.

The type and severity of these injuries directly affect what damages you may recover, including medical expenses, lost wages, future care costs, pain and suffering, and, in fatal cases, wrongful death damages.
If you or someone you love was injured in a red light accident in Los Angeles, Palmdale, or anywhere in Southern California, Prestige Law Firm P.C. is prepared to guide you through every step of the legal process.

Top Personal Injury Lawyers |
Prestige Law Firm P.C – Get
Justice Today

Injured in a car accident or due to someone else’s negligence? Prestige Law’s experienced injury attorneys are ready to fight for you.
Book your free consultation today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

Book your free consultation today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

Book a Free Consultation

See our Results

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Red Light Accident?

Determining liability in a red light accident isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties can share fault depending on the circumstances. Our experienced personal injury lawyers in LA carefully investigate every detail to identify all possible sources of compensation.

Negligent Drivers

The most common liable party is the driver who ignored the red light. Whether they were distracted, speeding, or impaired, drivers who violate California Vehicle Code § 21453 can be held financially responsible for the injuries and losses they cause.

Vehicle Owners

If someone other than the owner was driving the vehicle, the owner may still be liable.

Employers and Commercial Carriers

If the driver was on the job, such as a delivery driver, truck operator, or rideshare driver, the employer may share liability for the crash. This is especially common in Los Angeles County, where commercial and rideshare traffic is heavy.

Vehicle or Part Manufacturers

Defective brakes, signal systems, or other faulty parts can contribute to red light accidents. In such cases, the car manufacturer, distributor, or even a negligent mechanic may be held responsible.

Government Entities

Local governments are responsible for safe road design and traffic signal maintenance. If unsafe intersections, poor signal timing, or lack of maintenance played a role, agencies such as the City of Los Angeles or Los Angeles County Department of Public Works could be liable.

Steps to Take After a Red Light Accident

What you do in the moments after a crash can make a major difference in both your health and your legal case. If you’re involved in a red light accident in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, follow these steps to protect yourself and your rights:

1. Free Case Evaluation

Stay calm, check yourself and your passengers for injuries, and if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. If anyone is seriously hurt, do not move them until paramedics arrive.

2.Call 911 Immediately

Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, accept treatment from paramedics. Many injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, are not immediately obvious.

3.Do Not Admit Fault

Never apologize or make statements that could be interpreted as admitting responsibility. Liability will be determined later based on evidence and California law.

4.Exchange Information

Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license, and insurance details. If possible, collect contact information from passengers and eyewitnesses as well.

5.Gather Evidence

Take photos and videos of the scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, traffic lights, skid marks, road conditions, and weather. If the intersection has red light cameras, make a note of their location, as this footage can be vital to your claim.

6.Obtain a Police Report

Ask the responding officer for their name and badge number and request a copy of the police report. This report often plays a key role in proving fault in cases filed with the Los Angeles County Superior Court, including matters heard at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, Van Nuys Courthouse East, or Palmdale Courthouse.

7.Report to Insurance

Notify your insurance company, but avoid giving detailed statements to the at-fault driver’s insurer before speaking with a lawyer.

8.Contact an Experienced Red Light Accident Lawyer

Before navigating negotiations, contact Prestige Law Firm P.C. Our Los Angeles intersection accident attorneys will step in to handle insurers, help preserve key evidence, and advocate for your legal rights while you focus on recovery.

How Our Red Light Accident Lawyers Can Help You?

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we guide you through the entire legal process so you can focus on recovery while we advocate for your legal interests.

1

Case Evaluation

From the very beginning, we act quickly to protect your rights under Los Angeles County jurisdiction. Our team secures key evidence like red light camera footage, police reports, and eyewitness statements, while also working with accident reconstruction experts when needed.
We connect you with nearby medical providers, such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles or Palmdale Regional Medical Center, to ensure you get prompt treatment and documentation of your injuries.

2

Negotiation

Once we’ve documented your injuries and losses, we prepare a comprehensive demand package for the at-fault driver’s insurer. This includes proof of medical expenses, wage loss, and pain and suffering.
We also negotiate directly with medical providers to reduce bills when possible, which may increase the net recovery in a settlement. Throughout this stage, we handle all communication with the insurance company, who often tries to minimize payouts or shift blame.

3

Litigation

If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Depending on where your accident occurred, your lawsuit may be filed in the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles or at the Palmdale Courthouse, both under the authority of the Los Angeles County Superior Court.
We conduct depositions, hire expert witnesses, and prepare your case as though it will go before a jury. While many disputes resolve in mediation or arbitration, our trial team is prepared to present your case and pursue compensation supported by facts and evidence.
With decades of experience representing clients across Los Angeles County, including Van Nuys, Palmdale, and surrounding communities, Prestige Law Firm P.C. combines deep legal knowledge with local insight to apply relevant experience and local knowledge to support your case.

Why Choose Prestige Law Firm P.C. for Your Red Light Accident Case?

When you’ve been injured in a red light accident in Los Angeles, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference.

Proven Results

With over two decades of personal injury experience, our team has handled matters involving significant damages for accident victims across Los Angeles County. Whether your case involves a serious T-bone collision at a busy intersection or a wrongful death claim, we focus on building a strong case based on evidence and applicable law.

Personalized Attention, Boutique Firm Care

Unlike larger firms where clients get lost in the shuffle, Prestige Law Firm gives you direct access to attorney Paul Aghabala. We provide regular updates so you can stay informed about your case, and we can assist with coordinating referrals and documentation, and advise on practical next steps while your claim proceeds.

Prepared to Litigate When Necessary

Our Los Angeles red light accident lawyers are trial-ready. If an insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, litigation may be recommended when appropriate.
We handle everything from gathering red light camera footage to working with accident reconstruction experts to build the strongest case possible.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Companies

Attorney Paul Aghabala’s background as former defense counsel for insurance carriers and our staff’s experience as auto insurance claim adjusters gives us insight into common insurer evaluation methods and tactics.
We know the tactics insurers use to deny or minimize claims, and we use that insider knowledge to anticipate insurer tactics and respond strategically.

Handling Cases of Every Size

From smaller matters to complex, high-stakes litigation, we handle matters ranging from straightforward claims to complex litigation. We handle matters ranging from straightforward claims to complex litigation.

A Firm Rooted in Community Values

Prestige Law Firm is more than just a practice. We’re part of the community. Attorney Aghabala co-founded a non-profit with a disabled veteran to support homeless veterans in Greater Los Angeles, and each year we organize a holiday toy drive for children in foster care.
When you work with us, you’re choosing a law firm that cares deeply about the people of Los Angeles and Southern California.

Respected and Recognized

Our attorneys are recognized across California’s legal community, earning accolades such as listings in Super Lawyers and Rising Stars. These honors reflect our reputation for integrity, skill, and focused advocacy.

Free Consultation & No Fee Unless We Win

Attorney fees are contingent on recovery. Case costs may be advanced and reimbursed from any recovery (subject to the fee agreement).

Speak With a Los Angeles Red Light Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one is suffering from injuries after a red light accident in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, consider speaking with counsel promptly because legal deadlines can apply. Taking timely steps can help preserve evidence and protect your options.
Prestige Law Firm P.C. brings decades of experience handling intersection accident cases throughout Los Angeles County, including Downtown LA, Van Nuys, Palmdale, and communities across Southern California.
With a deep understanding of California traffic laws, insurance regulations, and personal injury litigation, we apply our experience to build cases grounded in the facts and applicable law.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case before the Los Angeles County Superior Court or Palmdale Courthouse, our goal is to pursue the best available outcome based on the facts, law, and evidence.
We have obtained favorable outcomes for past clients in some cases, and we will work to pursue compensation supported by the facts, evidence, and applicable law for your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term needs.
Call (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles accident lawyer and get your free consultation and case review.

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FAQ

What if the other driver denies running the red light?

Are punitive damages available in California red light accident cases?

Should I talk to the insurance company before hiring a lawyer?

Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault?

What if the traffic signal was malfunctioning?

Can family members recover damages in a fatal red light accident?

Do I need to go to trial to recover compensation?

What Our Client Say About Us

Thank you Prestige law firm. They are great at communicating and providing updates. Thank you Mr. Paul and Team.

Sam Aguila
Estoy muy agredecido con Paul. El abogado Paul me ayudo con mi caso. Recomiendo a esta firma porque son muy professionales y se preocupan de sus clientes. Muchas gracias Prestige law.

Vicente Ixmay
Fue muy buena, y me atendieron de inmediato y siempre al pendiente de lo que se necesitaba para que mi caso fuera lo mejor posible, el abogado muy bien y todo el personal de oficina amables y al pendiente de todo, fue una experiencia muy buena. Muchas gracias. Atte. DANIEL GARCIA BALDERAS.

Lencho Cruz
I’d like to sincerely thank Paul Aghabala and the Prestige Law firm for all of their time and hard work. I was a scared kid when I reached out and they helped me through the hardest time in my life. They truly fought for me. Thank you!

emily.
It has been a pleasure dealing with Paul and his associates. They genuinely care about you and your case. They are knowledgeable, honest and caring about you and your progress. Thank you for your service. I will definitely be back.

Irina Law
Awesome firm to handle my car accident! I got rear ended last year on Valentine’s Day 2024 and that was a bummer. After being referred to this team of professional attorneys they handled my case with care and continuous communication through all of my medical care. I felt they did their job with integrity and I would recommend them if you’re ever in a car accident. Thanks Prestige!

Michelle Landrum
Prestige Law son un grupo de Abogado’s Que me ayudaron a obtener lo Maximo en llevar mi caso de accidente

Carlos Castanon
Maravillosos mi caso ya esta cerrado con muy buenas ganancias para mi. Super recomendados.

Ivon Guerra Leon
I never in a million years thought that I would be one of those people to get hit in the rear it was totally devastating and I had no idea what to do. I made contact with the prestige law firm and they totally put me at ease not only did they get me Immediate medical attention and help with my aches and pains they got me a settlement that was beyond my wildest dreams I will always be grateful to them. I hope I’m never in another accident but if I am I will definitely be calling the prestige Law Firm

Lisa McClelland