According to the Federal Highway Administration, running a red light or other traffic control is the most common cause of all urban crashes. Meanwhile, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that in 2022 alone – 1,149 individuals were killed in collisions related to red light running. 

Red lights and stop signs are designed to keep traffic flowing in an orderly manner and reduce the risks of collisions on Utah roads. Failing to obey these signals can lead to serious crashes, life-changing injuries, and heavy financial burdens. 

It is crucial to follow red light and stop sign laws in Utah to avoid accidents. Yet even the safest drivers can find themselves injured because of another motorist’s unlawful actions.

If you face medical bills, lost wages, or ongoing rehabilitation expenses after a crash caused by someone who ignored a red light or stop sign, our Salt Lake City injury lawyers at Craig Swapp & Associates can provide guidance on holding the at-fault party accountable. 

Utah Red Light Laws

Utah law mandates that drivers must come to a complete stop at a steady circular red signal. Before proceeding, motorists must ensure that it is safe and permissible to do so. 

  • Right Turn on Red: The state allows a right turn on red after a full stop unless a sign explicitly prohibits the maneuver. 
  • Left Turn on Red: turning left on a red light is permitted only when a motorist is on a one-way street and is turning onto another one-way street. 

In all cases, a full stop is required, followed by a careful evaluation of oncoming traffic and pedestrians to ensure the move is safe.

Utah Stop Sign Requirements

When a driver encounters a stop sign, Utah law mandates a full stop at the clearly marked stop line, or if there is no line, before entering the crosswalk, or if there is no crosswalk, at the nearest point before entering the intersection. After stopping, a driver must yield to other vehicles or pedestrians who have already entered the intersection or are approaching close enough to pose a hazard.

Penalties for Violating Utah Red Light and Stop Sign Laws 

Under Utah Code §§ 41–6a–301 to 41–6a–305, failing to stop at a red light or stop sign could result in fines, points added to a driver’s record, and a potential increase in insurance premiums.

  • Monetary Fines: A traffic citation for ignoring a red light or stop sign generally costs $130, depending on the jurisdiction and whether the violation caused property damage or injuries.
  • Driver’s License Points: Utah assigns points for traffic offenses. Running a red light or stop sign can result in up to 50 demerit points for drivers. Should your total points reach 200 or more within a three-year period, you risk a license suspension or revocation.
  • Additional Penalties for Repeated Offenses: Repeat violators could face higher fines and harsher penalties. Courts may require traffic school or defensive-driving courses to reduce points and improve safety awareness. 
  • Civil Liabilities in Accidents: Beyond traffic penalties, those who break a traffic signal and cause a collision may be held financially responsible for resulting damages. Injured parties often work with Salt Lake City injury lawyers to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Common Causes of Red Light and Stop Sign Accidents

Red light and stop sign accidents often result from a combination of inattentiveness and risky driving behaviors, such as: 

  • Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or even handling car controls can divert a driver’s attention. When someone fails to notice a red light or stop sign because they are distracted, the risk of collision increases dramatically.
  • Speeding: A driver traveling at high speed may not have enough time to react to a red light or stop sign. Excessive speed also intensifies the damage potential. Even if the driver notices the signal at the last second, they may be unable to stop in time.
  • Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times, blur judgment, and increase risky behavior. Impaired drivers often fail to obey traffic signals, putting other road users in harm’s way.
  • Aggressive Behavior: Some drivers may knowingly run a red light or roll through a stop sign because they are impatient or trying to save a few seconds. This disregard for red light and stop sign laws in Utah puts everyone else on the road in danger.

Common Injuries in Running Red Light and Stop Sign Accidents

Traffic signals exist to regulate traffic flow and protect drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. When these signals are ignored, a variety of severe injuries can occur:

  • Head and Brain Injuries: High-impact collisions, such as T-bone crashes in intersections, can cause concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or skull fractures.
  • Neck, Back, and Spinal Injuries: Whiplash is common when a vehicle is struck unexpectedly. More severe spinal injuries may result in temporary or permanent paralysis.
  • Broken Bones and Fractures: Collisions at intersections often involve side impact, causing fractures to the ribs, legs, arms, or pelvis.
  • Soft Tissue Damage: Torn ligaments, strained muscles, or tendon damage may require extended physical therapy or surgery.
  • Internal Organ Damage: High-speed impacts can lead to internal bleeding or organ damage, demanding immediate medical treatment.

Medical bills, lost wages, and prolonged treatment can leave victims with significant financial strain. In many situations, the best way to seek compensation is to work with injury lawyers in Salt Lake City who focus on holding negligent drivers liable.

How to Pursue a Legal Action for Injuries

When another driver fails to obey red light and stop sign laws in Utah, your path toward a financial recovery may require legal action. Utah personal injury law provides a 4-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims arising from car accidents. 

The amount of compensation you could recover depends on factors such as:

  • Medical Costs: Past and anticipated expenses for surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and therapy.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery, as well as any future limitations on your ability to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: The emotional impact, mental anguish, and decreased enjoyment of life.
  • Property Damage: Costs of repairing or replacing a vehicle or other personal items damaged in the crash.

Punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault driver’s behavior is extremely reckless. However, Utah has guidelines regarding when and how punitive damages can be granted. An injury lawyer in Salt Lake City can go over what to expect in your particular situation.

Impact of Traffic Violations in Injury Claims in Utah

In Utah, the concept of “fault” is critical in determining how damages are awarded. 

The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover damages as long as your percentage of fault for the accident is below 50 percent. If your share of fault is 50 percent or more, you may be barred from recovering compensation.

When a motorist disregards a red light or stop sign, liability often falls on that driver because they violated a traffic safety rule. If two or more drivers ignored signals or contributed to the accident, each driver’s degree of fault is assessed under this system. 

Gathering proof – such as witness statements, police reports, traffic camera footage, and expert accident reconstruction – can strengthen a claim and help determine liability. A qualified injury lawyer in Salt Lake City knows which evidence can be most persuasive in establishing fault.

How Salt Lake City Injury Lawyers Can Help

It is vital to seek legal guidance if another driver’s recklessness caused a crash. Whether it’s collecting evidence, dealing with insurance companies, or preparing to bring your claim to court, support from experienced attorneys is often a key factor in achieving a favorable outcome.

  • Investigating the Scene: A thorough investigation is vital for building a strong claim. This includes obtaining police reports, analyzing photos or videos from traffic cameras, collecting evidence from the accident scene, and interviewing witnesses.
  • Evaluating Medical Records: Reviewing medical records and collaborating with healthcare professionals helps show the true extent of the injuries. Detailed documentation can assist in calculating current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation needs, and potential lost wages.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance providers might attempt to shift blame or diminish damages. Injury lawyers in Salt Lake City can handle all communication and negotiation to help ensure that settlement offers cover the full scope of losses.
  • Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary: When insurers do not offer a fair amount, legal counsel can proceed with a lawsuit, preparing the case for court if a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation.
  • Protecting Your Rights: Proper legal representation helps you understand Utah personal injury laws, statutory deadlines, and your own rights. Having a Salt Lake City injury lawyer can reduce stress, free up time for healing, and potentially increase the compensation you receive.

By understanding red light and stop sign laws in Utah and working with Salt Lake City injury lawyers, you can pursue the compensation and sense of justice you deserve. At Craig Swapp & Associates, every injured person’s journey matters. It all starts with “One Call, That’s All” – so you can focus on regaining control of your life.

If you believe you have a claim, reach out to us to review your situation and guide you forward. Call our office today at 1-866-308-3822 or fill out our contact form to have your free consultation scheduled.

Written By: Ryan Swapp     Legal Review By: Craig Swapp