Traffic signals are supposed to keep the roads safe for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. But what happens when they do not work? Malfunctioning traffic signals can create serious accidents on Michigan roads. Understanding your legal options helps protect your rights and allows you to pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Why a Malfunctioning Signal Can Lead to Injury

Traffic signals guide the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. When a signal fails, confusion and collisions often follow. Crashes caused by a broken or misprogrammed signal can involve multiple parties, including municipalities, maintenance contractors or other drivers who fail to respond safely.

How to Document Your Accident

Proper documentation strengthens your personal injury claim. Collecting the right information early helps prove negligence:

  • Photograph the traffic signal and accident scene immediately.
  • Record the contact and insurance information of all involved parties.
  • Obtain witness statements about the signal malfunction and crash.
  • Keep detailed records of your medical treatment and expenses.
  • Save any police reports or traffic citations related to the incident.

These records show how the malfunction contributed to your injuries and support your claim for damages.

Limits on Claims Against Government Traffic Signals

You cannot automatically file a personal injury claim if a traffic signal malfunctions in Michigan. The government usually has protection from these types of lawsuits. You can only file a case if the problem qualifies under the "highway exception" in MCL §691.1402. To do this, you must show the government knew about the defect and follow strict rules, including sending a detailed written notice to the agency responsible within 120 days of your injury.

Filing a claim is complicated because Michigan courts often decide that a broken traffic signal is not actually a highway defect, which makes it hard to pursue compensation. A lawyer can review your case, explain your options and help you with filing if the law allows.

Protecting Your Rights After a Traffic Signal Accident

Even if the accident seems minor, seek medical attention and document every detail. Prompt action preserves evidence and strengthens your claim. Consulting with an attorney early helps you understand your options. You need someone who will advocate for your right to compensation so you can focus on recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the government if a malfunctioning traffic signal caused my accident?

In Michigan, you can only sue the government for a traffic signal malfunction if it qualifies under the "highway exception" in MCL §691.1402. You must prove the government knew about the defect and file a detailed written notice within 120 days of your injury. Michigan courts often rule that broken traffic signals don't qualify as highway defects, making these claims challenging.

What evidence do I need to prove a traffic signal caused my accident?

Strong evidence includes photographs of the malfunctioning signal and accident scene, witness statements confirming the signal failure, police reports, contact information from all parties involved, and detailed medical records. Document everything immediately after the accident, as this evidence is crucial for proving negligence and supporting your compensation claim.

How long do I have to file a claim for a traffic signal accident in Michigan?

If you're filing against a government entity, you must send written notice within 120 days of your injury. For claims against other parties like maintenance contractors or drivers, Michigan's general personal injury statute of limitations is three years. However, government claims have much stricter deadlines, so consult an attorney immediately.

Who can be held liable for a defective traffic signal accident?

Potentially liable parties include municipalities responsible for signal maintenance, contractors hired to repair or install signals, and other drivers who fail to respond safely to the malfunction. Liability depends on who had responsibility for the signal's operation and whether they knew or should have known about the defect.

What compensation can I receive for injuries from a traffic signal accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and property damage. The amount depends on the severity of your injuries, the strength of your evidence, and whether you can successfully establish liability under Michigan law.