Accident Involved - Red Light Not Obeyed
I was involved in a collision where I was going straight as I had a green light and other car coming out at red light from right side of the intersection. We had a T-bone collision. One witness who says she was behind the other accident car said that we went through the red light. We did not have any witnesses on our side. It was a quite sunny day when there was not much traffic movement. Cops were called and he recorded my, other driver and witness's statement. He then came over to me and gave me an offence report with charges of "Disobeying the red light". When I questioned, they said it is based on statement of an independent witness.
There is a bus stop at that intersection and I clearly remember that there were people standing and waiting for bus at the time of accident. I just went blank after the accident and could not think of anything. I am confused about the responsibility of police officer. Isn't it the responsibility of cops to collect all the evidence? I am thinking now that police should have asked those people who were waiting for bus rather than just making the decision based on the statement of witness who came voluntarily. Police never questions the credibility of witness.
We have an early resolution meeting coming up soon. I have tried to consult various paralegal and none of them is convinced to go for a trial. They said we would likely lose in trial because of witness. They are giving us an option that they could get us a plea deal (reduce demerit points + different charge + possibly less fine). I do not know which way to go. Should i take a deal or go for a trial? What are the odds of winning a trial? Taking a deal will still mean that we are pleading guilty and will significantly increase our insurance.
Please share your experience and knowledge.