Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Wyoming law and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for advice related to your situation.
Detailed Answer
When a driver runs a red light and causes a collision in Wyoming, you can prove liability by establishing negligence. Negligence requires four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
- Duty: All drivers in Wyoming owe a duty to obey traffic signals and drive safely.
- Breach: Violation of Wyo. Stat. 7 31-5-103 constitutes a breach. This statute states that drivers must stop at steady red lights and may not proceed until the signal changes. Wyo. Stat. 7 31-5-103
- Causation: You must show that the drivers failure to stop directly caused your injuries or vehicle damage. Video footage, photos, and expert reconstruction help prove cause and effect.
- Damages: Document property damage, medical bills, and other losses.
Gather the following evidence to support each element:
- Police reports: Obtain the official crash report showing the at-fault driver ran the red light.
- Witness statements: Secure written or recorded accounts from on-scene witnesses.
- Video or photos: Collect dash-cam footage, traffic camera recordings, or cell phone videos.
- Accident reconstruction: Consider hiring an engineer to analyze skid marks and point of impact.
Once you have strong evidence, present it to your insurer or an attorney. Insurers assess liability based on this proof and relevant Wyoming laws. If the insurer disputes fault, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit in district court.
Helpful Hints
- Call 911 immediately and request a police investigation.
- Seek medical attention—even minor injuries require documentation.
- Take clear photos of all vehicles, traffic signals, and the scene.
- Exchange contact, license, and insurance information with the other driver.
- Refrain from admitting fault or speculating about the crash.
- Keep a detailed log of vehicle repair estimates and medical visits.
- Consult a personal injury attorney if liability or damages exceed your policy limits.