Fatalities increased from motorists running red lights

If you have ever been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Oklahoma, chances are it involved a vehicle running a red light. These types of crashes are increasing along with the number of serious injuries and fatalities that they cause.

Statistics on red-light crashes

The AAA Foundation indicates that 28% of deaths involving MVA occur at intersections with red lights. Almost half of the fatalities were passengers of people in other vehicles, while 35% were drivers of vehicles that ran the red light. Only 5% were pedestrians or cyclists. Over a 10-year period, these types of accidents have steadily increased as motorists continue to drive recklessly when they are in a hurry.

What needs to happen

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has noted that intersections with red light cameras reduce the incidence of motorists running red lights, as well-publicized red light camera programs make motorists think twice about entering the intersection after the light turns. Not only do motorists want to avoid getting a ticket, but they can also be more easily identified and caught in hit-and-run incidents. However, at the same time, drivers must also change their behavior when in a potential red light situation to avoid fatal crashes. To prevent red light crashes, AAA recommends that drivers do the following:

• Lift your foot off the accelerator whenever you approach an intersection
• Be aware of lights that have been green for a long time as they are apt to change
• Tap the brakes several times to alert drivers behind you
• Drive defensively whenever you enter an intersection

What if I have been injured?

Even if you follow all of AAA’s recommendations, you may still be injured in a red light accident. Make sure that that you document the entire incident to help prove that you were not at fault.

Gathering as much evidence as possible may work in your favor in an injury case. Obtaining evidence such as red light camera footage and asking witnesses to testify can make a difference when filing a claim.