Accident Summary
At approximately 10:00 AM on a weekday, a collision occurred at a signalized T-intersection in Cleveland.
Due to a malfunction in the traffic light system, both directions showed green signals simultaneously.
Vehicle A, approaching from the horizontal road, began a left turn into the intersection.
Vehicle B, approaching from the opposite direction on the vertical road, proceeded straight through the intersection.
Both drivers believed they had the right of way.
The vehicles collided near the center of the intersection, with Vehicle B striking the side of Vehicle A.
Civil Lawsuit
The driver of Vehicle B filed a civil claim for $120,000 against:
1. The driver of Vehicle A
2. The City of Cleveland
Legal Arguments
- Vehicle B claimed they had the right of way and that the city failed to maintain the signal system.
- Vehicle A argued they also had a green light.
- The City claimed the malfunction was brief and unavoidable.
Key Evidence
- CCTV footage showed both signals green.
- Police confirmed a system reboot 15 minutes earlier.
- Vehicle B was speeding (43 mph in a 35 mph zone).
- Dashcam showed no evasive action.
Verdict – Comparative Fault
Vehicle B: 20% at fault
City of Cleveland: 40% at fault
Damages Awarded
Total damages: $120,000
Vehicle B received $96,000 after 20% deduction.
- City of Cleveland paid $48,000
- Vehicle A's driver paid $48,000