A recent AAA study has found that the deaths caused by a driver blowing through a red light have risen to a new 10 year high. That means more people died from drivers running red lights in 2017 than have died in any of the 10 prior years. That’s a disturbing statistic not only for motorists but for anyone who interacts with the road in any way, including pedestrians and bicyclists. According to the AAA study, more than half of the red light fatalities were passengers. So, the people making the decisions behind the wheel were not even the primary fatalities. People becoming more relaxed about their habits around red lights is not a good thing. Overestimating the time you have to speed through a yellow light can be just as bad as running the light when it is solidly red, too. If you’re concerned about this new rise in red-light running-related deaths, here are some of the best ways to keep yourself and your passengers safe.
The alarming rise in red light running fatalities, reaching a 10-year high in 2017, underscores the critical need for increased awareness and safety measures on our roads. This trend, marked by a staggering 28% increase in red light running fatalities since 2009, represents a significant threat to all road users, including motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. The chilling statistic that over half of the red light fatalities were passengers highlights the tragic consequences of reckless driving decisions. This emphasizes that the dangers of red light running extend beyond the driver, impacting innocent passengers who are often left vulnerable and exposed to the consequences of their driver’s actions.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study paints a stark picture of the increasing disregard for traffic laws and the devastating consequences that follow. The study reveals that 939 people lost their lives in red light running crashes in 2017, a stark reminder of the deadly impact of this dangerous behavior. This trend is not only alarming but also deeply concerning as it indicates a growing disregard for the safety of others on the road. The study also found that more than half of the red light fatalities were passengers, highlighting the vulnerability of those who rely on others for safe transportation. This sobering statistic underscores the importance of advocating for safer driving practices and promoting responsible driving behavior among all road users.
The consequences of red light running extend beyond the immediate impact of the crash. The loss of life, injuries, and property damage are devastating consequences that can have lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities. Furthermore, the financial burden associated with medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs can be significant, placing a strain on individuals and the healthcare system. The rise in red light running fatalities underscores the importance of addressing this issue on multiple fronts. Drivers must be held accountable for their actions, and effective enforcement measures must be implemented to deter this dangerous behavior.
Public awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in educating drivers about the dangers of red light running and promoting safer driving practices. Encouraging drivers to prioritize safety, avoid distractions, and obey traffic laws is essential to reducing the number of red light running crashes. The use of technology, such as red light cameras and traffic enforcement systems, can also play a role in deterring red light running and holding drivers accountable. By implementing a multi-faceted approach that includes education, enforcement, and technological solutions, we can work towards creating safer roads for all. It is imperative that we prioritize road safety and take proactive measures to prevent these tragedies from continuing. By working together, we can create a safer environment for all road users and reduce the number of lives lost to red light running crashes.
Avoid Distraction
A good tip for any driver in any situation is to avoid distractions as much as possible. That means lowering the volume on the radio, leaving your phone in your center console or out of arm’s reach, and making sure that the passengers in your car are not intentionally distracting to you.
In the face of the rising threat of red light running crashes, avoiding distractions while driving becomes a crucial life-saving measure. It’s not just about following the rules of the road; it’s about prioritizing safety and ensuring that you’re fully attentive to your surroundings.
Imagine this: you’re approaching a green light, but your phone buzzes with a notification. A quick glance to check the message might seem harmless, but that split second of distraction can be enough to miss a red light turning yellow, leading to a dangerous situation.
This is why it’s essential to create a distraction-free driving environment. Lowering the volume on the radio reduces the auditory distractions that can pull your focus away from the road. Similarly, keeping your phone out of reach, ideally in the center console, prevents you from being tempted to check it while driving.
But distractions don’t just come from technology. Passengers can also be a source of distraction, especially if they’re engaging in loud conversations or playing games. It’s important to set clear expectations with your passengers about the importance of staying quiet and avoiding distractions while you’re driving.
Remember, driving requires your full attention. By avoiding distractions, you’re not only protecting yourself but also those around you. Make a conscious effort to eliminate any potential distractions, and you’ll be taking a significant step towards safer driving.
Leave Your House With Plenty of Time
One of the top reasons for blowing through an intersection is because you’re in a rush. Make sure you leave your house with enough time to get to your destination so that you do not make a mistake out of a hurry.
Don’t Overestimate Yellow Lights.
Sometimes, we overestimate the amount of time we have to get through a yellow light. However, we learn that yellow lights mean “slow down” for a reason. When you’re approaching a yellow light, bring your car to a lower speed and make a complete stop to avoid accidents.
Approach Traffic Lights With an Element of Caution
Even if a traffic light seems to be a solid green, it’s important to approach intersections with an element of caution. Reduce your speed a bit, and don’t hurry through a traffic light intersection, just in case.
Contact Herrman & Herrman P.L.L.C. at 361.882.4357
Our firm is equipped with over 100 years of combined experience handling personal injury cases across Texas. Our outstanding record of favorable settlements and verdicts includes over 20,000 successfully resolved cases. Once we take on a case, we are relentless, and you can rely on us to pursue full compensation for you.
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