Harlingen Red Light Accident Attorneys

Protecting Victims Injured by Red Light Runners

Running a red light is one of the most reckless and dangerous traffic violations on Texas roads. In Harlingen and across the Rio Grande Valley, these accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt by a driver who ignored a red light, Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call Now: (956) 368-0000.

Injured in a Red Light Crash in Harlingen? Schedule your free case review or call us now at (956) 368-0000. Se habla Español.

Why Red Light Accidents Are So Serious

Red light crashes frequently involve T-bone or side-impact collisions, which can cause catastrophic injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), red light running is responsible for hundreds of deaths and tens of thousands of injuries annually in the U.S.

In Texas, it’s illegal to enter an intersection after the traffic signal turns red. Drivers who violate this law can face criminal penalties as outlined in the Texas Transportation Code §544.007.

Red Light Running Accidents in Harlingen: Deadly Statistics You Can’t Ignore

When drivers ignore traffic signals, they put lives at risk—especially at busy intersections across Harlingen and Cameron County. Red light crashes are some of the most violent and deadly traffic accidents, often occurring at full speed with no time to brake. If you’ve been injured in one of these collisions, a Harlingen red light accident lawyer at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers can help protect your legal rights and pursue the justice you deserve.

According to a comprehensive report from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), over 9,200 people were killed in red-light running crashes between 2008 and 2017 across the United States. That equates to nearly 1,000 lives lost every year to reckless and entirely preventable behavior.

Key Findings from the FHWA Report on Red Light Running:

• More than 50% of red light crash fatalities were innocent victims—not the driver who ran the light. This includes passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
• Urban intersections like those in Harlingen see the highest rates of red-light-related accidents, especially during peak commuting hours.
• From 2008 to 2017, red light fatalities showed no significant decline, despite overall improvements in vehicle safety and crash avoidance technology.

These findings underscore the urgent need for accountability and strong legal representation for crash victims.

Texas Red Light Accident Trends: A Persistent Danger

Texas consistently ranks among the top states for intersection-related crashes and fatal red light collisions. With high-speed roadways like Interstate 69E and high-traffic areas like Treasure Hills Blvd, Harlingen drivers face serious risks every time someone chooses to ignore a red light.

In fact, data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) shows that:

• Intersection crashes account for a significant portion of serious injuries and fatalities on Texas roads.
• The majority of red light crashes occur on city streets, not highways—making local intersections the most dangerous.

That’s why you need a Harlingen intersection accident attorney who knows how to build strong cases using local crash data, expert witnesses, and video evidence from traffic cameras.

Red Light Cameras in Texas: What Harlingen Drivers Need to Know

Many drivers wonder whether they can receive a ticket from a red light camera in Harlingen. The short answer: not anymore. In 2019, Texas passed legislation that significantly changed the legal landscape for red light enforcement systems.

Red Light Cameras & Car Wrecks

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), red light cameras were once used throughout the state to automatically issue citations to drivers who failed to stop at red signals. However, the passage of House Bill 1631 (86th Legislature) in 2019 effectively banned red light cameras in Texas.

Here’s what you need to know about this law:

• All new red light camera installations are prohibited statewide.
• Cities with existing contracts in place before May 7, 2019 could continue using red light cameras until the end of those contracts.
• Cities are still required to report annual crash statistics at intersections that had red light cameras prior to the ban.

You can view these annual reports and crash data on the TxDOT Red Light Camera Reports page.

Are There Red Light Cameras in Harlingen, TX?

No. As of now, Harlingen does not operate red light cameras at any intersection. The city does not have an active contract with any red light camera vendor, and no intersections in Harlingen are currently monitored by automated enforcement systems.

What This Means for Drivers:

• You will not receive a red light camera ticket in Harlingen or the surrounding Cameron County area.
• However, running a red light is still a serious traffic offense under Texas law and can result in tickets, fines, and points on your license if caught by a police officer.
• More importantly, you can still be held civilly liable for injuries caused by a red light violation.

If you’ve been injured in an intersection crash caused by a red light runner, it’s essential to speak with a qualified Harlingen red light accident lawyer at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers.

Why the Ban Doesn’t Mean You’re Safe

While the removal of red light cameras has changed enforcement procedures, it hasn’t eliminated the risk of red light intersection accidents. In fact, intersection accidents have remained a leading cause of injuries and deaths on Texas roads, especially in urban areas like Harlingen.

If you’ve been hurt due to someone running a red light, our attorneys can help you:

• Investigate the accident using police reports and local crash data
• Reconstruct the collision to prove liability
• Pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering

Learn more about related accident claims:

• Car accidents in Harlingen
• Truck collisions in Harlingen
• Motorcycle crashes
• Pedestrian injuries at intersections
• Treasure Hills Blvd intersection claims

Were You Hit by a Red Light Runner in Harlingen? Contact our legal team today or call (956) 368-0000 for immediate help. Hablamos Español.

Texas Driving Laws: Red Light Violations and Their Consequences

Understanding Texas driving laws is crucial, especially when it comes to red light violations. Running a red light is not only dangerous but also carries significant legal and financial consequences.

Legal Definition and Requirements

Under the Texas Transportation Code §544.007, drivers are required to stop at a red light before entering an intersection or crosswalk. Failure to do so constitutes a violation of state law. It’s important to note that turning right on red is permitted unless a sign prohibits it, and left turns on red are allowed only from a one-way street onto another one-way street.

Penalties for Red Light Violations

Running a red light in Texas is classified as a Class C misdemeanor. Penalties can include:

• Fines: Typically ranging from $150 to $275, depending on the jurisdiction.
• License Points: A conviction adds two points to your driving record. Accumulating six or more points within three years may result in additional surcharges.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies may raise rates for drivers with red light violations, viewing them as higher risk.
• Potential License Suspension: Habitual offenders, defined as those with four or more moving violations in 12 months or seven in 24 months, may face suspension under Texas Transportation Code §521.292.

Impact of Red Light Camera Tickets

While red light cameras were once used to enforce traffic laws, Texas banned their use statewide in 2019 through House Bill 1631. This legislation prohibits local authorities from implementing or operating photographic traffic signal enforcement systems. Therefore, red light camera tickets are no longer valid, and drivers are not required to pay them.

Legal Assistance

If you have been involved in an automobile crash due to a red light violation, it’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney. Legal professionals can help navigate the complexities of traffic laws and ensure your rights are protected. If you are in need of a Motor vehicle collision in Harlingen, Texas, Brownsville or nearby areas, call Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers at (956) 368-0000 or complete our online form.

How Traffic Signs and Signals Impact Your Case After a Red Light Accident in Harlingen

Understanding how traffic signs and signals function—and how they are regulated—is essential if you’ve been involved in a red light crash in Harlingen, TX. Traffic control devices are not just tools for safety; they are also key pieces of legal evidence when proving negligence in intersection accident cases.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our Harlingen red light accident attorneys closely study the traffic conditions, signage, and signal control mechanisms at the intersection where your crash occurred. We use official standards set by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to help establish liability and build a strong case.

TxDOT’s Role in Managing Texas Traffic Signals

TxDOT is responsible for the planning, installation, and maintenance of traffic control devices throughout Texas. This includes:

• Conducting traffic engineering studies to determine where new signals are warranted
• Evaluating crash frequency and severity at intersections across cities like Harlingen
• Implementing appropriate safety solutions—including traffic signals, signage, or roundabouts

These evaluations follow strict criteria defined in the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD), which ensures consistency statewide. When a signal is improperly timed or a stop sign is missing, government liability may even come into play in your personal injury case.

Types of Traffic Control Devices Relevant to Red Light Crashes

In red light and intersection-related crashes, the type and placement of traffic signals or signs can significantly influence case outcomes. Some of the most critical devices include:

• Traffic Signal Heads and Turn Arrows – Misinterpreted or malfunctioning signals often play a role in left-turn and T-bone collisions.
• Regulatory Signs (e.g., STOP, YIELD, NO TURN ON RED) – Help determine legal fault in failure-to-yield crashes.
• Warning Signs – Such as “Signal Ahead” signs that provide advance notice and may reduce a driver’s claim of being “surprised” by the signal.
• Pedestrian Crosswalk Signals – Crucial in cases involving pedestrian accident injuries

Common Harlingen Intersections with Complex Signal Timing

Some of the most dangerous intersections in Harlingen, TX are known for high volumes of traffic, red light runners, and complicated turn patterns. These traffic hotspots include:

• Treasure Hills Blvd
• Expressway 83 (I-2) and its frontage roads
• Ed Carey Drive

Each of these intersections experiences a high frequency of red light running and turning movement conflicts, often during peak morning and evening traffic hours. These conditions can easily lead to rear-end collisions, T-bone crashes, and left-turn accidents, particularly when signal timing or lane markings are unclear.

Why Signal Timing Matters at Busy Intersections

Improper or outdated signal configurations can contribute to confusion, non-compliance, and ultimately, serious auto accidents. Based on TxDOT’s traffic control guidelines, intersections like these may warrant:

• Longer yellow light intervals to give drivers more time to stop safely and reduce the temptation to “beat the light”
• Protected left-turn lanes or arrows to prevent unsafe turning across oncoming traffic
• Improved signal visibility and signage for better driver awareness and reduced hesitation

TxDOT uses crash data and traffic studies to evaluate the effectiveness of signal timing, signage, and intersection geometry. If signal mismanagement played a role in your accident, this information could be critical to your case.

How Our Lawyers Investigate Dangerous Intersections

If your crash occurred at one of these busy intersections, a skilled Harlingen intersection accident lawyer from Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers can:

• Review TxDOT traffic signal studies and public safety reports
• Analyze local crash frequency data and road design flaws
• Subpoena traffic camera footage or intersection surveillance
• Work with experts to reconstruct how signal timing may have contributed to the collision

This level of detail can help establish whether a government entity, third-party contractor, or another driver was at fault.

What If a Traffic Signal Malfunctioned?

TxDOT’s Report a Road Issue Tool allows citizens to report problems like malfunctioning traffic lights. However, if a signal failed to operate correctly during your crash, that failure could shift legal liability to a municipality or government agency.

In such cases, our attorneys investigate the following:

• Was the traffic signal poorly maintained or non-functional?
• Were recent complaints or TxDOT service logs filed?
• Did the city or state ignore known dangers at that intersection?

We pursue every potential source of liability, including government negligence when warranted.

Know Your Rights After a Red Light Crash

Whether or not red light cameras are in use, Texas drivers are still required by law to stop at red traffic signals. If another driver ran a red light and caused your injuries, you have the right to pursue legal action—even if no citation was issued.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our legal team offers:

• Free case evaluations
• No legal fees unless we win
• Bilingual representation for Spanish-speaking clients

Call (956) 368-0000 today to speak with a trusted Harlingen red light accident attorney who knows how to get results.

Protect your future. Hold negligent drivers accountable. Trust the team at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers to fight for what you deserve.

Dangerous Intersections in Harlingen

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we closely monitor local crash data and represent clients injured at high-risk intersections, including:

• Treasure Hills Blvd, a corridor known for serious car accidents
• Expressway 83 and Ed Carey Drive, where congestion and signal timing contribute to frequent rear-end and T-bone collisions
• Intersection zones near schools, medical centers, and shopping centers where pedestrian activity increases the danger

If your crash occurred at one of these intersections—or anywhere in Harlingen—our team is ready to launch a full investigation and fight for your rights.

Your Legal Options After a Red Light Crash

Victims of red light accidents often face overwhelming medical expenses, emotional trauma, and lost wages. But you don’t have to face it alone. When you hire a Harlingen red light accident injury lawyer, you get a legal advocate who will:

• Review traffic camera and police report evidence
• Determine fault and pursue maximum compensation
• Handle all communication with insurance adjusters
• Prepare your case for trial if needed

We also represent clients in related accident claims such as:

• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle collisions
• Rollover crashes
• Pedestrian accidents in Harlingen
• Spanish-speaking accident representation

Get Legal Help After a Red Light Accident in Harlingen through our secure form or call us directly at (956) 368-0000. Free consultation. Se habla Español.

Speak with a Harlingen Red Light Accident Lawyer Today

Don’t let a careless driver’s decision change your life forever. If you’ve been hurt in a red light accident in Harlingen, our attorneys at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers are ready to stand by your side. We understand Texas traffic law, local intersection hazards, and how to win high-stakes injury cases.

Call us now at (956) 368-0000 for a free consultation.

Serving Harlingen, Cameron County, and the entire Rio Grande Valley.

Protect your rights. Hold reckless drivers accountable. Let Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers fight for the justice you deserve.

Red Light Accidents in Harlingen, TX: Causes, Consequences, and How We Can Help

Red light accidents in Harlingen, Texas, represent a serious safety issue for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. According to recent traffic data, intersection crashes involving red light violations remain a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities in the area. Understanding the causes and legal ramifications of these accidents is crucial for anyone affected.

Why Do Red Light Accidents Happen?

Several factors contribute to the high rate of red light-related crashes in Harlingen:

• Speeding and Risky Driving Behaviors: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identifies speeding as a major factor in many intersection collisions. Speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it harder to stop safely at yellow or red lights.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers using mobile devices or otherwise distracted may fail to notice traffic signals, increasing the risk of running red lights and causing collisions.
• Traffic Signal Timing and Intersection Design: The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) plays a critical role in setting standards for traffic signals and signs. Poorly timed yellow lights or confusing intersection layouts can inadvertently lead to more red light violations and accidents.
• Driver Behavior and Awareness: According to the Texas Transportation Code, drivers must obey all traffic control devices, including red lights. Failure to do so not only endangers lives but also results in legal consequences.

Consequences of Red Light Violations in Texas

Running a red light in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor, carrying fines and points on your driving record. This can result in:

• Monetary fines and court costs
• Points added to your driving record, leading to increased insurance premiums
• Potential license suspension for repeat offenders
• Legal liability for injuries and damages caused in crashes

For full details on these laws, the Texas Department of Transportation’s driving laws page provides an authoritative resource.

How Can You Stay Safe?

The best way to prevent red light accidents is by obeying traffic signals and staying alert, especially in busy intersections known for frequent crashes. TxDOT regularly evaluates intersections to improve signal timing and visibility, and the public can report malfunctioning signals through the TxDOT Report a Road Issue tool.

The Hidden Risk: 15-Passenger Vans and Red Light Accidents in Harlingen, TX

In a city like Harlingen, Texas, where family groups, church organizations, and small businesses frequently use 15-passenger vans, red light accidents involving these vehicles can be especially catastrophic. Due to their size, design, and high rollover risk, 15-passenger vans present unique dangers—especially at intersections where sudden stops and sharp turns are required.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 15-passenger vans are more likely to roll over than smaller vehicles, particularly when fully loaded or driven at high speeds. The agency warns that overloading these vans or improperly inflating tires increases the likelihood of fatal rollovers—especially during sudden maneuvers like red light avoidance or running a stale yellow light.

Why 15-Passenger Vans Are Especially Dangerous at Intersections

Red light intersections in Harlingen—such as those near Ed Carey Drive, Loop 499, and Treasure Hills Blvd—are already prone to collisions. Add a fully loaded 15-passenger van to the equation, and the risk of serious injury or fatality multiplies. These vans:

• Have a higher center of gravity, making them prone to tipping during hard braking or sudden turns.
• Take longer to stop, especially when speeding or carrying multiple passengers.
• Are often operated by untrained drivers, which can result in delayed reactions to changing traffic signals.
• May be subject to poor maintenance, including worn brakes or underinflated tires—both key contributors to intersection crashes.

Real-World Red Light Scenarios Involving 15-Passenger Vans

These vans are commonly used for:

• School field trips
• Church group transportation
• Youth sports teams
• Shuttle services and rideshares

When a driver of a 15-passenger van runs a red light or misjudges a yellow light, the result can be catastrophic—not only for those in the van but for any other vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection.

In cases like these, liability can fall on multiple parties: the driver, the organization that owns the van, or even third-party maintenance contractors. Our team at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers is experienced in identifying all liable parties in complex intersection and rollover accidents.

How We Can Help You After a 15-Passenger Van or Red Light Accident

If you or a loved one was injured in a collision involving a 15-passenger van or red light violation in Harlingen, you have legal rights. Our experienced Harlingen car accident lawyers and rollover accident attorneys can help by:

• Investigating the van’s safety record, maintenance history, and driver qualifications
• Reconstructing the intersection accident using crash reports, surveillance footage, and signal timing data
• Pursuing claims against negligent organizations, insurance carriers, and other responsible parties

Safety Tips for 15-Passenger Van Drivers

To prevent red light and rollover crashes, the NHTSA recommends:

• Never overloading the van—especially avoiding the rear seats when possible
• Ensuring all tires are properly inflated and checked regularly
• Requiring all passengers to wear seat belts at all times
• Only allowing experienced, trained drivers to operate the vehicle
• Driving at safe speeds and avoiding sudden lane changes or harsh braking

Injured in a red light crash in Harlingen involving a van or another vehicle? Call Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers at (956) 368-0000.
We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Common Injuries from Red Light Accidents

Victims of red light crashes often suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Permanent disability

If you’re facing physical pain, mounting medical bills, and time off work, our Harlingen red light accident attorneys are ready to help.

How Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers Can Help

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we aggressively represent clients injured by negligent drivers. We investigate crash scenes, gather video footage, work with accident reconstruction experts, and demand full compensation from insurers.

We also have deep experience with related auto injury claims, including:

• Car accidents in Harlingen
• Spanish-speaking auto accident representation
• Truck accident cases and Harlingen truck crash claims
• Motorcycle accidents
• Rollover crashes
• Pedestrian accidents
• Treasure Hills Blvd collision cases

What to Do After a Red Light Crash in Harlingen

1. Call 911 and get medical attention.
2. File a crash report with law enforcement. (You can review reporting rules from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT))
3. Document the scene with photos and witness statements.
4. Call an experienced Harlingen red light accident lawyer at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers: 📞 (956) 368-0000

Trusted Red Light Accident Attorneys in Harlingen, TX — Get your free consultation or dial (956) 368-0000. Hablamos Español.

Call (956) 368-0000 To Speak With a Harlingen Red Light Accident Lawyer Today

Red light accidents can leave you dealing with overwhelming medical bills, missed work, and ongoing pain. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our trusted Harlingen red light accident attorneys fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable and help victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Whether you were struck at a dangerous intersection like Treasure Hills Blvd, Expressway 83, or Ed Carey Drive, we bring deep local knowledge, courtroom experience, and a proven track record to every case we take on.

Why Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers?

Free, no-obligation consultations—We’ll review your case and explain your legal options clearly.
No fees unless we win—You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless you do.
Local Harlingen trial lawyers—We understand Valley roads, local courts, and how to go head-to-head with insurance companies.
Full-service personal injury firm—We handle car accidents, rollover crashes, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle injuries, and more.

Schedule Your Free Case Evaluation Today

Call (956) 368-0000 to speak with a Harlingen red light collision lawyer right now.
Or contact us online through our secure website form to set up your free case review.

Frequently Asked Questions About Harlingen Red Light Accident Lawyers

What should I do after a red light accident in Harlingen, TX?

If you’re involved in a red light accident, first check for injuries and call 911 immediately. Seek medical attention—even if injuries aren’t obvious right away. Report the crash to the police and get a copy of the accident report. Then contact a trusted Harlingen red light accident lawyer to understand your rights and begin the claims process.

Who is responsible for a red light accident in Texas?

In most cases, the driver who ran the red light is found at fault. However, if other factors contributed—like poor signal timing, vehicle malfunctions, or road design—liability could be shared. An attorney can help investigate the crash and determine all responsible parties.

Are red light camera tickets still legal in Texas?

No, red light camera enforcement was banned statewide in 2019. While some intersections may still have cameras for monitoring, tickets issued solely from red light cameras are no longer legally enforceable in Texas. Learn more on TxDOT’s red light camera info page.

What types of injuries are common in red light collisions?

Red light accidents often happen at high speeds or from the side (T-bone crashes), causing injuries such as:

• Whiplash
• Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding

These injuries may require long-term care, making legal representation crucial.

How much compensation can I recover after a red light crash?

The value of your claim depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Some cases may also include punitive damages if reckless driving is involved. Contact us for a free consultation to get a clearer estimate.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Texas follows the modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover compensation—but your total award will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to recover damages, so it’s important to act quickly.

How can Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers help after a red light accident?

We provide aggressive legal representation and thorough investigation of your crash. Our team:

• Gathers evidence, police reports, and camera footage
• Reviews TxDOT traffic signal studies
• Consults with accident reconstruction experts
• Negotiates with insurance companies or litigates in court if necessary

We serve the Harlingen community with personalized, local representation and no upfront legal fees.

Red Light Crash in Harlingen? Reach out to Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers now or call (956) 368-0000 for a no-cost case evaluation. Hablamos Español.