In Maryland and throughout the United States, drivers are immediately trained as to the importance of stopping at red lights. This is a fundamental aspect of being a safe and conscientious driver. With the expectation that drivers will adhere to the rules of the road, someone running a red light can be the catalyst for an auto accident with personal injury and death. In recent years, there has been a troubling rise in the number of drivers who have run a red light, leading to crashes. When there is an accident after a driver has run a red light, those who were victimized must remember their right to file a lawsuit.
A study from AAA shows that the number people who were killed after a driver ran a red light is at its highest point in 10 years. The latest statistics are from 2017. In that year, there were 939 deaths when drivers went through a red light. This is the most since 2008. It is a 28 percent rise from 2012.
There are two deaths in this type of accident every day. A director at AAA says this is evidence of recklessness on the part of drivers. AAA was unable to determine why there has been this significant a rise in these crashes. Overall, there was a 10 percent rise in highway deaths. This is far lower than the 28 percent rise in fatal red light accidents.
A potential reason is that drivers are on the road more often. Another consideration is that traffic lights might have timing issues leading to drivers running through red signals. As with many accidents in the current landscape, distracted driving if perceived to be a potential problem. Drivers are advised to be ready to stop when approaching an intersection.
They are also told that looking both ways before proceeding when a light turns green could enhance safety. One suggestion that has had a positive affect is the implementation of red light cameras as drivers who are facing the prospect of a ticket and fine will exercise greater caution.
Despite the best efforts of legislators, law enforcement and researchers to reduce the frequency of drivers running red lights, it is still a concern and a common cause of auto accidents. After a collision, the medical expenses, lost income, loss of a loved one and other aftereffects can change lives in myriad ways.
