The Bay Area continues to be a hotbed for innovation and new careers, which also means more traffic on our highways and freeways. As more and more people commute around Oakland, San Francisco, and major South Bay cities like San Jose, the risk of serious and fatal auto accidents increases. Thankfully our attorneys can help those who have been harmed in collisions and crashes.
Running red lights is a common cause of crashes. We’d like to explore this issue in more detail, and offer a common sense view of these preventable accidents.
Statistics on These Kinds of Auto Accidents
Accidents that involve blowing through red lights through intersections can be extremely deadly. They’re also more common than you may think. According to numbers from the Federal Highway Administration, roughly 2.5 million accidents in intersections occur each year. Roughly half of all serious collisions occur in intersections; around 20 percent of all fatal collisions occur in intersections.
Running red lights accounts for around 165,000 accidents every year. Of the collisions, around 700 -800 crashes results in fatalities.
Common Reasons People Run Red Lights
There are some common reasons why people say they run red lights. None of these are good excuses, of course, but they are honest reasons why these kinds of collisions occur.
- Driver inattention
- Cell phone use while driving
- Texting while driving
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Being impatient or in a rush
- Traffic signal obscured
- Poor placement of the traffic signal
- Malfunctioning traffic lights
- Poor weather
Dangers When Turning Left or Right on a Red Light
While barreling straight through an intersection can lead to many dangers, there are also dangers in turning left or right on a red light. Even though the coast may seem clear to make that illegal turn, a car could come from out of nowhere and strike a vehicle.
Turns should only be taken when permitted. Any time a sign says that no turns can be taken on red lights, be sure to follow those instructions for your safety and the safety of others.
Dangers When Trying to Beat Yellow Lights
In addition to running red lights, there are many dangers associated with trying to beat yellow lights. Yellow lights are a warning that you should slow down rather than speed up. Yet still, many people just drive faster trying to beat a yellow. This can lead to serious collisions with vehicles on the road as well as pedestrians and bicyclists.
When you see a yellow light, be sure to slow down. Exercising caution and common courtesy on the road can save people’s lives.
Drive Cautiously and Follow the Rules of the Road
All of the above emphasizes the importance of common sense driving and careful attention to your surroundings. It’s of the utmost importance that drivers be aware and attentive of all decisions they make while behind the wheel.
Speak with Our Attorneys About Your Case
If you or a loved one was seriously injured in an accident, we can help you. Contact our team of experienced injury attorneys today to discuss your case and legal options. Our experience will prove crucial to your case.