Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
In Ohio, proving another motorist’s negligence at a traffic signal or exit requires you to establish these four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. You must show that the other driver owed a duty to obey traffic controls, breached that duty by violating a statute or rule, directly caused the collision, and that you suffered actual harm or loss as a result.
1. Duty and Breach of Traffic Laws
Every driver in Ohio must obey traffic-control devices under O.R.C. § 4511.12. This includes stopping at red lights, yielding at signal-controlled intersections, and following exit signs. A clear violation of these rules constitutes a breach of the duty of care.
2. Causation: Linking Breach to Collision
You need evidence showing that the breach directly led to the crash. Ohio courts recognize but-for causation: but for the other driver’s failure to obey the signal, the accident would not have occurred.
3. Damages: Demonstrating Harm
Document the injuries and property damage you sustained. Medical records, repair invoices, and lost-wage statements support your claim for compensation.
4. Types of Evidence
- Police Reports: Contains citations and officer observations. Request at the local law enforcement agency.
- Traffic Camera or CCTV Footage: Signal-intersection recordings or private cameras can confirm signal status and vehicle positions.
- Photographs and Videos: Capture skid marks, vehicle damage, traffic signals, and road signs immediately after the crash.
- Witness Statements: Written or recorded accounts from bystanders, passengers, and other motorists.
- Accident Reconstruction Experts: Can recreate the collision sequence, timing of signals, and impact dynamics.
- Electronic Data: Some vehicles record speed, brake application, and steering inputs in event data recorders (EDRs).
5. Statutory References and Negligence Per Se
When a driver violates O.R.C. § 4511.12, Ohio courts often treat that violation as negligence per se. This means you do not need separate proof of how the breach occurred—only that the breach (signal violation) caused your harm. For full statutes, see:
O.R.C. § 4511.12 and the broader traffic chapter at O.R.C. Chapter 4511.
Helpful Hints
- Preserve evidence immediately: photograph damage and signal indicators before they change.
- Obtain a certified copy of the police report early; corrections are harder later.
- Identify and interview witnesses while memories are fresh.
- Secure all medical and repair invoices to prove the extent of your damages.
- Consider hiring an accident reconstruction specialist for complex signal-timing issues.
- Back up electronic evidence (phone videos, EDR downloads) in multiple formats.