As road safety continues to be a critical concern for communities, the focus on preventing red light accidents becomes increasingly important. Red light running is a major factor in many traffic collisions, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. To address this pressing issue, initiatives like Stop on Red Week play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting safer driving behaviors.
The Importance of Stop on Red Week
Stop on Red Week is a dedicated effort to combat the dangers of running red lights and improve road safety. Held annually, this campaign serves several key purposes:
- Raising Awareness- The campaign focuses on educating drivers about the dangers of running red lights and the importance of adhering to traffic signals. Public awareness efforts include advertisements, social media campaigns, and community events.
- Encouraging Compliance- By highlighting the risks associated with red light running, Stop on Red Week encourages drivers to follow traffic laws and be more cautious at intersections.
- Promoting Enforcement- The week often coincides with increased enforcement efforts by law enforcement agencies, including ticketing and monitoring intersections to catch red light violators.
- Supporting Safety Measures- The campaign advocates for the implementation of safety measures such as red-light cameras and improved traffic signal designs to deter red light running and enhance overall road safety.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, an average of two people die daily in the U.S. due to red-light running accidents. These statistics highlight the urgent need to follow basic traffic rules.
Let’s delve into the concerning statistics of red-light accidents, the main causes of these collisions, common injuries sustained, how to determine fault, and the steps to take if you or a loved one are involved in such an accident.
Alarming Red Light Accident Statistics
Red light accidents are among the most severe types of crashes, often involving high-speed collisions at intersections. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), last year, there were more than 4.6 million red-light violations reported, 1,149 deaths due to red-light running, and another 107,000 injuries due to this type of accident. These figures are staggering and highlight the necessity of adhering to traffic signals at all times.
Top Causes of Red-Light Accidents
Red-light accidents often stem from driver errors, including:
- Distracted Driving- Activities such as texting or talking on the phone divert attention from the road and increase the likelihood of running a red light.
- Speeding- Excessive speed reduces the time drivers have to react when approaching a red light.
- Intoxication- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs reaction times and judgment.
- Reckless Driving- Ignoring traffic signals, weaving between lanes, and tailgating can lead to severe accidents.
Regardless of the cause, running a red light is illegal and endangers everyone on the road.
Common Injuries from Red-Light Accidents
The severity of injuries in red-light accidents can range from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries- Sudden impacts can cause muscle sprains, strains, and whiplash.
- Broken Bones- High-impact collisions can result in fractures of the arms, legs, or spine.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)- Head impacts may lead to concussions, contusions, or other types of TBIs.
- Internal Bleeding- Severe accidents can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
If you suffer injuries in a red-light accident, your medical expenses can quickly accumulate. Additionally, if you miss work due to your injuries, you may experience lost wages. Before accepting a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, it’s always important to consult with a personal injury attorney to explore the benefits of filing a claim. Experienced attorneys often secure significantly higher compensation than individuals handling claims alone.
Proving Fault in a Red-Light Accident
To establish fault in a red-light accident, you must demonstrate that the other driver was negligent by failing to obey the traffic signal. Evidence that can support your case includes eyewitness accounts, video footage from traffic or surveillance cameras, police reports, and physical evidence from the accident scene.
Gather as much evidence as possible immediately after the accident and consult with a personal injury lawyer to build a strong case against the negligent driver. Skilled attorneys can improve your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Steps to Take After a Crash with a Negligent Driver
If you or a loved one are involved in a red-light crash, your first priority should be seeking medical attention for any injuries. Even if you feel fine, have EMS assess you and follow up with your doctor, as some injuries may not become apparent immediately.
If possible, collect information from the other driver, including their name, contact details, and insurance information. Take photos of the accident scene, note the names and contact information of any witnesses, and file a police report.
Finally, consult with a reputable personal injury law firm to understand your legal options and receive guidance on pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses.
As we observe Stop on Red Week, it’s crucial to recognize the serious risks associated with running red lights. By understanding the statistics and common causes of red-light collisions, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones on the road.
Car Accident Lawyers in York, Pa.
At the law offices of Dale E. Anstine, our experienced car accident attorneys understand the challenges faced by car accident victims. You don’t have to navigate this difficult time for you and your family alone. If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, reach out to us for a free consultation. Our top-rated car accident firm is dedicated to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let the insurance company dictate your recovery and your compensation. Get fighters on your side and reach out to us today. You can do so by beginning a live chat on our website, filling out a free consultation form, or by calling us now at 717-846-0606.