Traffic lights aren’t suggestions. When a careless driver flaunts traffic laws and runs a red light, the consequences can be devastating. Drivers with the right of way seldom expect to be hit from the side by another driver, so they don’t have the time or sense to take evasive maneuvers. At least 1,149 people died in accidents involving red light running in one recent year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Your actions behind the wheel can have a significant impact on preventing traffic crashes and intersection accidents. Everyone knows they are supposed to stop on red. Careless drivers looking to “beat the light” or those distracted while driving endanger everyone they share the road with. Although you can’t control the actions of others, you can take measures to protect yourself and your family from red-light accidents.
At Stewart Law Offices, we want to help you avoid motor vehicle accidents involving red light running by giving you tips and proactive advice to prevent intersection accidents.
Pay Attention
Always pay attention to your surroundings. Many drivers run red lights because they are distracted and don’t see the light changing. Likewise, you can avoid being hit by a driver running a red light by taking a few extra seconds to look both ways before entering an intersection, even when you have the green light.
Give Plenty of Space
Put plenty of space between you and the vehicle you are behind. Maintaining a safe following distance can help avoid hard braking and rear-end collisions. Following at a safe distance also means better anticipating and responding to changing traffic conditions and signals.
Look Before Entering
The green light gives you the right of way, but that matters little to a speeding red light-running driver. Before you enter the intersection, take your time and check both directions. A couple of seconds of extra caution could mean the difference between life and death.
Drive the Speed Limit
Follow all posted speed limits and adjust your speed to changing traffic and weather conditions. Obeying traffic laws gives you the time and space to stop on red before entering an intersection. It also allows you to maneuver if you notice another driver running a red light and entering an intersection when they shouldn’t.
Anticipate Signal Changes
Traffic signals are designed to let you know when to anticipate a signal change.
- Yellow means caution, slow down, and the signal is about to turn red. Slow down and prepare to stop when you’re approaching a yellow light. Pay attention and take notice of your surroundings.
- If you see a “don’t walk” sign facing you, anticipate that the green light will turn red and make necessary adjustments.
Contact Stewart Law Offices If You Are Injured in a Red Light Accident
Red light running is preventable. Yet, thousands of people suffer traumatic and fatal injuries every year due to this careless driving behavior. If you or a loved one get hurt in a red light accident, talk to an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. At Stewart Law Offices, we want to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact our office today and request a free, no-obligation legal consultation.
