What Are the Dangers of Running a Red Light?

Bill Allen | July 12, 2023 | Car Accidents

Running a red light is not only against the law but can also be extremely dangerous and deadly. Unfortunately, some people run red lights for various reasons, including medical emergencies and impatience.

While people have many reasons for running red lights, the consequences of this risky behavior can be dangerous and life-threatening. 

Is Running a Red Light a Serious Offense? 

Red Light running occurs when a vehicle enters an intersection after the traffic light has turned red. After the light has turned red, the driver has committed a violation. 

A significant number of people are killed yearly in crashes involving red light running, including in 2021, when 1,109 died. Half the people killed were pedestrians, bicyclists, and people in other vehicles.

Additionally, in 2021, an estimated 127,000 people were injured in red light running crashes, according to The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These numbers show that red light running is an issue, especially since innocent people are being killed and injured due to this behavior.

Why Do People Run Red Lights? 

Unfortunately, there are many reasons why people run red lights. Below are general reasons why some people run red lights.

  • Impatience: Some drivers may be in a hurry and choose to run a red light to save time, ignoring the potential risks involved.
  • Distraction: In today’s digital age, drivers may become distracted by their smartphones, GPS devices, or even conversations with passengers, leading them to miss or ignore the red light.
  • Recklessness: Unfortunately, some drivers disregard traffic laws and engage in risky behaviors, including running red lights.

There are many reasons or “excuses” why people run red lights, but that does not justify the decision to act irresponsibly, especially since it is illegal.

What Happens if You’re in an Accident After Running a Red Light? 

The consequences can be severe if a motorist runs a red light and causes an accident. 

Here’s what may result from red light violations.

Running a red light is a quick action; deciding to do so often results in permanent consequences. 

What Measures Do States Take To Decrease Red Light Running?

States address the issue of red light running by implementing various measures. Some common strategies include:

  • Cameras. Many states have intentionally installed cameras to catch red-light runners. Some cities use cameras and penalize offenders. 
  • Public awareness. States run educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of running red lights. These campaigns emphasize the importance of following traffic signals and the potential consequences of disobeying them.
  • Intersection improvements. States may make engineering changes to intersections, such as adjusting signal timings and adding more visible traffic lights. 

Preventing accidents caused by running red lights requires everyone’s commitment to safe driving, and the responsibility to decrease red light running is shared by both states and drivers. 

Do I Need an Attorney if I’m Involved in a Red Light Accident?

Legal help is often necessary if you intend to file a claim for your injuries. Choosing the right lawyer after an accident doesn’t have to be stressful. Most personal injury lawyers only receive attorney’s fees if they obtain compensation for you and offer free initial consultations. It’s likely worth your time to reach out for some preliminary legal advice to learn about your options going forward.

Contact Our Ocala Car Accident Law Firm in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Ocala car accident lawyers at Allen Law Firm at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We have three convenient locations in North Central Florida:

Allen Law Firm, P.A. – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258

Allen Law Firm, P.A. – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Firm, P.A. – Gainesville office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652