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Detailed Answer

In Wyoming, proving negligence requires demonstrating four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. When a collision occurs at a traffic signal or exit ramp, you need specific evidence to connect the other motorist’s actions to your injuries and losses.

Duty and Breach

Under Wyoming law, all drivers owe a duty to operate vehicles safely and obey traffic signals. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 31-5-233 requires motorists to stop at a red light and proceed only when safe. Failure to comply constitutes a breach of the duty of care. (Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 31-5-233)

Causation

After establishing breach, you must show causation. This means the other driver’s signal violation or improper maneuver directly caused the collision. Evidence like skid mark analysis or expert reconstruction can connect the breach to your crash.

Damages

You must prove you suffered actual harm, such as vehicle damage, medical expenses, or lost wages. Keep detailed records, including medical bills, repair invoices, and pay stubs.

Key Evidence Types

• Police reports and traffic citations. Official records often note signal violations.
• Traffic camera footage or surveillance video. Video proves the signal phase and vehicle actions.
• Photographs and scene measurements. Document vehicle positions, skid marks, and traffic signal indications.
• Traffic signal timing logs or computer data. Request timing data from the local traffic management agency.
• Vehicle event data recorder (“black box”). Many modern cars record speed and braking force before a collision.
• Eyewitness statements. Statements from passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers can confirm signal status.
• Accident reconstruction report. A qualified engineer can reconstruct the crash dynamics.
• Medical and repair records. Link your injuries and property damage to the crash.

Statute References

• Wyo. Stat. Ann. Title 31, Chapter 5 – Traffic regulations.
• Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 31-5-233 – Traffic control signals.

Helpful Hints

• Preserve all evidence quickly—photos, videos, and physical evidence can degrade or disappear.
• Obtain a certified copy of the police report and any traffic citations.
• Request traffic signal timing data from the local agency as soon as possible.
• Interview and obtain contact information from witnesses at the scene.
• Consult a Wyoming attorney experienced in car collisions for guidance.
• Consider hiring an accident reconstruction expert early to assess fault.
• Keep meticulous records of all medical treatment and repair estimates.
• Follow up on open records requests promptly to avoid delays.