Attorney Alan Fassonaki and the team at Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. secured a $26,450.51 settlement for a client injured in a California car accident caused by a driver who ran a red light in Long Beach, California.

Facts of the Case

Our client was traveling as a seat-belted driver through an intersection in Long Beach, California, when an at-fault driver failed to stop at a steady red traffic signal and struck a third vehicle. The force of that initial impact caused the third vehicle to crash directly into our client's vehicle, resulting in a chain-reaction collision. As a result of the crash, our client experienced immediate shock and sustained multiple bodily injuries. His injuries temporarily prevented him from returning to work.

Legal Strategy: Establishing Driver Negligence and Liability

This case was pursued under California negligence and motor vehicle law. Under California law, all drivers have a legal duty of care to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner with consideration for the safety of others on the road.
Our legal strategy focused on proving that the at-fault driver:
•    Failed to stop at a solid red traffic signal, in direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 21453(a)
•    Engaged in dangerous and reckless driving behavior that put multiple road users at risk
•    Breached their duty of care owed to our client under California law, directly causing the chain-reaction collision and our client's resulting injuries

Under California Vehicle Code § 21453(a), a driver facing a solid red signal must stop at the marked limit line, or if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, before entering the intersection, and must remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown. The at-fault driver's failure to comply with this requirement was the direct cause of this collision. The opposing insurer accepted liability for this loss.
In addition to pursuing a third-party bodily injury claim against the at-fault driver's insurance, our firm also pursued our client's own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage and Medical Payments (Med Pay) coverage to ensure our client was fully compensated for his injuries and medical expenses.

Disclaimer: This image is a stock photo obtained from Envato Elements and does not depict the actual scene, individuals, or events described.

Settlement Terms

The case was resolved for a total settlement of $26,450.51. This recovery compensated our client for his bodily injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and all economic and non-economic damages resulting from the at-fault driver's negligent conduct.

Results That Matter: California Car Accident Lawyers

Red light violations are among the most dangerous and preventable causes of traffic collisions. Drivers are legally required to obey all traffic signals and to operate their vehicles safely at all times. If you were injured in a California car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in California

Who is liable when a driver runs a red light?
A driver who fails to stop at a red traffic signal and causes a collision is generally liable for all resulting damages under California law. Their failure to obey traffic control signals constitutes a breach of their duty of care to other drivers and road users.

What is UM/UIM coverage and when does it apply?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is a type of insurance that protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries and losses. An experienced attorney can help you pursue all available sources of recovery.

What types of injuries are common in red light accident collisions?
Common injuries include:
Back and neck injuries
Shoulder injuries
Wrist and hand injuries
Soft tissue injuries and contusions
Head and concussion injuries in more severe cases

How much is a car accident case worth in California?
The value of a car accident case depends on:
The severity of injuries sustained
Medical treatment required and ongoing care needs
Lost wages and impact on ability to work
Insurance coverage available, including third-party and UM/UIM policies
Pain, suffering, and impact on daily life

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
Car accident cases especially those involving multiple vehicles, multiple insurance claims, or UM/UIM issues can be complex. Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure that all available sources of recovery are pursued and that you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case depends on its unique facts and applicable law.